Florida Woman’s 100-Pound Ovarian Cyst Inspires Body-Positive Health Message

Allison Fisher, a 20-year-old from Florida, is celebrating a new lease on life after doctors discovered and removed a 100-pound ovarian cyst that had been silently growing for years. Her symptoms—stomach pain and irregular periods—began in 2020, but she avoided seeking help due to past experiences of medical fat-shaming.

“I thought if I ignored it, it would go away,” Allison shared, revealing how fear of weight bias kept her from getting the care she needed.

By late 2022, her condition worsened—her abdomen hardened, her breathing became difficult, and she could no longer ignore the signs. Thankfully, Dr. Martin Martino at Ascension St. Vincent’s successfully removed the massive cyst and saved her other ovary, preserving her fertility.

Now, Allison is on a journey to reclaim her health and confidence. She says she can see her feet again, wear comfortable clothes, and move freely—milestones that mean everything.

“There are people like me who are scared to go to the doctor because of their weight. I just want them to know they shouldn’t be.”

Her story is a powerful reminder: self-advocacy can save lives.