How I felt when I heard the diagnosis:  I didn’t know how to feel. Nothing can prepare you for the possibility of losing your wife to something that you don’t even fully understand.

What I did to support my wife:  I did not know what or how to support her, but I did what I thought was helpful. In retrospect, it did not even scratch the surface.

What was most difficult for me:  Watching her suffer and shutdown and having to standby not knowing what to do.

How we can all help:  What I have learned throughout this process is that the prognosis of cervical cancer is not only an issue for women. The husbands, children, brothers, sisters and loved ones in the immediate circle all suffer – not the physical pain, but we all share the emotional and psychological scars of a diagnosis of cervical cancer. I have learned that more men need to step forward and learn how they can help other men be better supporters for their loved ones. Without bringing this cancer out of the darkness and into the light, it will remain for some an embarrassment or and continue to stigmatize women diagnosed with cervical cancer as not being complete women.

What I learned about my wife: She is one of the strongest people that I have ever had the honor to know. Her resolve is unquenchable, and her drive unstoppable. She is my “shero” and I will always be indebted to her for taking a chance on me, and allowing me an opportunity all these years later to be a full part of all she went through when she was originally diagnosed.