How my story begins: When I was 18 years-old, I learned I had endometriosis aside from abnormally small ovaries with very little chance of conception and if so, less than 10% chance of delivery. At 22-years-old, I gave birth to my healthy daughter. Post delivery, I was healthy and active with no signs of medical concerns, with the exception of endometriosis.
On May 2, 2008, I experienced several pain and bleeding and was taken to an emergency department. In one sentence, I learned that I was pregnant and I miscarried. After the miscarriage, I was unable to conceive; therefore, I sought a gynecological consultation. I began experiencing extreme unintentional weight loss and irregular menstrual cycles.
In March 2009, I underwent my first of two laparoscopic surgeries removing the endometrial polyps from my uterus and bladder. This procedure led to the scaring slightly permanently damaging my bladder. In August 2009, I underwent the second laparoscopic surgery.
In 2010, I was experiencing increased levels of pain so I scheduled another gynecological appointment. We discussed more testing and other medical options. Meanwhile, all of my pap and other screenings were normal and the endometriosis subsided. The pain was so severe that I couldn’t get out of bed without pain medication, especially during my menstrual week.
In July, I underwent a radical abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral oophorectomy resulting in immediate “forced” menopause. At my post week one follow up, I was told of my pathology results, cervical carcinoma in situ (CIS). Fortunately the cancerous cells were confined to the cervix. My gynecologist said that he was glad that I opted for the surgery because the cancer cells were rapidly growing, and the cancer would have progressed to stage 4 within 9-12 months. My hysterectomy literally SAVED MY LIFE!!
Telling my family and friends: I remember the day my gynecologist informed me that my pathology results determined it was cancer. I was unable to drive and barely walk, so my step-dad took me to the appointment. When I returned to the waiting area, I walked to my step-dad with a blank expression saying, “He said it was cancer.” I did not think twice that other people were in the room or what I was saying to my dad. I was numb and shocked – it just came out. We drove home in silence and there I told my mom.
My treatment: I underwent a radical abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral oophorectomy. I was placed on the estrogen patch, estrogen cream, and menopause supplements. After the first year, I was permanently placed on an estrogen pill. In 2024, I consulted my current primary care physician to confirm the duration of estrogen. Due to surgically removing my ovaries as well, I must remain on estrogen indefinitely.
What was most difficult for me: There are different areas of difficulty. For many years, I battled survivor guilt. I struggled realizing that my hysterectomy-oophorectomy WAS my cancer treatment. I battle grief acceptance when losing close friends or family members. When my daughter was younger, she would beg for a sibling without understanding why that was impossible, which broke my heart, but without this surgery, she would not have her mother!
Where I am today: In July 2025, I will celebrate 15 years NED (No Evidence of Disease)! Once a year, I visit my gynecologist for my necessary wellness checkup. Due to my cancer history, it is highly recommended that I have a yearly pap exam. In 2024, I turned 40 years old. I consult with my primary physician quarterly and I take several supplements to help balance out my hormones.
When a woman’s body is “forced” into menopause (meaning not that of the natural process and timing), her body thinks it is much older than it is. It speeds up the body clock by 10+ years so I am active in the gym 5+ times a week, eating more protein plant based foods, hydrating, and keeping up with my medical appointments.
What I want other women to know: Ladies, please, please let your annual wellness exam be the one appointment you never cancel. Cancer does not discriminate. Regardless of your sexual history, menopause status or sexual orientation preference - you still need to schedule (AND KEEP) your annual wellness appointment!! If you feel there is something wrong with your body, go see your doctor. If you are not satisfied, seek second or third opinions. No one knows your body better than you do! Please don’t put it off. It can save your life!
How I will try to help others: I am passionate about advocating for women’s health and wellness shining light on the importance of HPV vaccinations, cervical cancer, and scheduling annual gynecological wellness appointments.
Any additional information you'd like to share: My goal is to help women remember the importance of their cancer screenings regardless of their age, menopausal status, and sexual orientation. All “below the belt” health is equally important!