Sile

Cancerversary: August 2015

Age at diagnosis: 34

Diagnosis: Cervical cancer (unspecified)

Stage of cancer: II

How my story begins: Lucky to have been a young mom of 3 amazing children and married to the love of my life. I was just a normal girl in a normal town in Ireland living a normal life.

How I felt after diagnosis: I felt numb, different, defeated, determined and lost - so many emotions that I am still dealing with on a daily basis. Sometimes I feel like I don’t know who I am anymore. I have this huge hole in my soul and heart and then there are times when I don’t feel it and for a split second I forget I’m the “sick” friend in the group. It’s a rollercoaster.

My treatment: My treatment consisted of a radical hysterectomy, 6 rounds of chemo, and 29 rounds of external radiotherapy.

How I felt after treatment: My chemo made me sick until my consultants sorted out my anti-sickness dosage. Radiotherapy made me so exhausted, even up to now, and I’m 3 years on. I feel like my body is 90 years old.

What was most difficult for me: I can’t really choose just one thing, but if I had to, it would be living with a body that I don’t feel is mine.

My life after cancer: My life after cancer is not what I ever expected, but I feel more motivated to be an ambassador for more women in my situation. Here in Ireland, there is little to no information and a disaster of a health system, which as you probably know has ruined a lot of lives recently due to cervical cancer screening not being up to par. I try to live my best life and appreciate the small things.

Where I am today: I am nearly 4 years cancer free and suffering from Lymphadema in my left leg, but I don’t let anything slow me down.

How I will try to help others: I want to let other women know to be more aware of their bodies and not to take anything for granted. Cancer doesn’t care what age you are or whether you are a good person.

Any additional information you'd like to share: I really would love to become an advocate for Cervivor to give something back! xx