Hi, my name is Hanson, and I’m 26 years old. It all began earlier this year when I sought help from a virtual healthcare provider that specializes in diagnosing and treating ADHD, which I suspected I might have. After a thorough evaluation, they confirmed that I had the condition and began prescribing me different medications to see which one would help with my symptoms.

I was first put on Vyvanse for a one-week trial. During that time, I experienced occasional heart palpitations, but I brushed them off since they usually lasted only 10–15 minutes. I informed the provider about these effects, and they promptly switched me to a non-stimulant medication called Strattera (Atomoxetine), which is a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor.

However, after taking my very first dose, I realized it was not the right medication for me. I began experiencing severe heart palpitations, light-headedness, chest tightness, and an overwhelming feeling that I might be having a heart attack. When I arrived at the emergency room, my blood pressure measured an alarming 180/110, even after several rechecks—something that surprised the nurses as well.

I was admitted to the hospital, and during a chest CT scan, doctors incidentally discovered a large, egg-sized lesion on my left adrenal gland. After further scans and tests, they diagnosed me with a pheochromocytoma.

I was never a great student, as I could hardly focus on my studies. Procrastination until the very last minute had been a constant habit since childhood, and anxiety often kept me from engaging in social situations. I was always a shy child, but I spent most of my teenage years trying to break out of that shell by putting myself in uncomfortable situations, even when the anxiety felt overwhelming. I’m grateful for the discovery of the tumour because it made me realize the problem wasn’t entirely my fault.

As I wait for my first appointment with the surgeon, I’ve come to understand how this tumour has influenced my personality, coping mechanisms, thought patterns, social interactions, and overall self-confidence. To anyone reading this who is going through a similar situation — remember that we can’t always blame ourselves for the way we feel. I hope that once this tumor is removed, we can finally find peace within ourselves.