A woman who learned she had terminal lung cancer at age 34 is sharing her story to help others recognize symptoms she overlooked. Linda Chavez, now 35, was diagnosed with stage-four metastatic bronchial carcinoma after years of mistaking her symptoms for less serious issues. She now talks openly on TikTok to raise awareness and offer support.
She explained five warning signs she ignored. The first was a cough that lasted for years. It started off mild, but eventually became deeper and painful. She emphasized that a long-lasting cough should always be checked by a doctor.

Next was a constant ache in her bones. She described it as a throbbing sensation—similar to stubbing a toe, but felt throughout her entire body. This was one sign that the cancer had spread beyond her lungs.
Chavez also had daily headaches for months. Although headaches are not a common lung-cancer symptom, her cancer had reached her brain and other areas.
Extreme fatigue was another issue. She said she felt exhausted all the time and even breathing became uncomfortable. The fifth symptom was ongoing nausea, later linked to the cancer affecting the part of her brain that manages appetite and digestion.
Her family has organized a fundraiser that has collected more than $40,000 to help with her care. They say Chavez remains strong and continues treatment with the support of her loved ones and followers.