cancer community

Embracing Fearlessness After a Cervical Cancer Diagnosis

Life often takes unexpected turns, and sometimes these twists reveal a sense of fearlessness we never knew we had. For many in the Cervivor community, this unexpected resilience and strength begins with one of the scariest challenges to confront: a cervical cancer diagnosis. The experience forces us to confront our deepest fears – which some of our Cervivors share below – and find the courage that changes our lives forever.

The Diagnosis

Receiving a cervical cancer diagnosis shakes your world. Fear of the unknown, anxiety about treatment, and worries about the future overwhelm your mind. Initially, many of us feel powerless against this invasive disease. The thought of surgery, chemotherapy, and the potential long-term effects are daunting. 

But let Julie Groob, a survivor who volunteers with Cervivor and attended the 2024 Cervical Cancer Summit, explain how the cervical cancer diagnosis was for her:  

“It’s weird to be relieved to hear the words, “You have cancer,” but that was my reaction. After eight years of recurrent cervical dysplasia, finally, the world of cancer support and services was open to me. Those eight years were lonely, but with a cervical cancer diagnosis, I found the Cervivor community as well as cervical cancer patient advocacy and purpose. Cervivor connected me with women on a very similar journey, who embraced me completely. By meeting them in person, I connected with them beyond our shared cancer diagnosis. Cervivor taught me that my voice, my humor, just being me, and sharing my story could change and save lives. Cancer let me in on a little secret, life is precious, so live life fiercely and joyfully, always.” 

Discovering Cervivor, Inc.

Like Julie, other Cervivor community members often find solace in shared experiences and strength in unity, from attending our monthly virtual cervical cancer support group, Creating Connections, to attending live events like the Cervical Cancer Summit, Communities of Color Retreat, and the premiere cervical cancer patient advocacy training program, Cervivor School. (Read about the recent Cervivor School Minneapolis, which marked the 10th year of the unique program.) 

Here’s how Sara Johney, who graduated from the aforementioned Cervivor School, found her way to Cervivor’s cervical cancer support organization: 

“It was early in my cancer journey, just around the time I was diagnosed, when I found Cervivor. As I developed recurrences and challenges, I never knew how much I would come to depend on my Cervivor sisters. The strength and resilience I learned from these women have helped me in the last few years and even today. I know I will not go down without a fight and anything is possible with God, my family, and the Cervivor community.” 

Empowerment Through Community

Through Cervivor, Inc., many in our community members discover that fearlessness is not about the absence of fear but the courage to act in spite of it. By participating in cervical cancer awareness campaigns, advocacy, and support groups, our members often transform their fear into fuel for change.

Gwendolyn Jackson, who was recently given the Erica Frazier Stum Living Life with Cancer Award and is currently going through cervical cancer treatment, shares: 

“I was looking for a support group for cervical cancer and when I did a Google search, Cervivor came up. Since then, Cervivor has taught me that my story matters and the true definition of advocating for myself and others. I am living fearlessly with stage IVB cervical cancer because of my relationship with Cervivor, which connected me to a clinical trial when I needed it most. The organization also taught me that I’m more than a cancer patient and that I have a voice that can change lives, heal others, and prevent this from happening to anyone else. Cervivor has equipped me to be informed, to feel empowered, and to be alive.”

Finally Finding Fearlessness

A cervical cancer diagnosis can shape your story, but – as Gwendolyn pointed out – it doesn’t have to define you. Fearlessness isn’t something achieved overnight; it’s a journey. Embracing a fearless mindset happens through support, education, and collective strength. 

Here are some ways that you can make a difference in your life and others:  

Together, let’s break the silence surrounding cervical cancer and cultivate a community of powerful patients, survivors, and advocates.

Creating Connections Program Spotlight: Breaking Down Barriers and Building Community

Cervivor’s Creating Connections Program is a ray of hope for individuals affected by cervical cancer. The innovative program is dedicated to cultivating a supportive community, addressing stigma, and providing essential resources through a monthly virtual support group. 

How does the Creating Connections Program help?

The program offers a safe space for people to share their experiences, receive emotional support, and connect with others who understand their journey. It provides:

  • An online support group
  • Educational resources
  • Mentorship and coaching
  • Advocacy and awareness initiatives

“Being a part of the Creating Connections cervical cancer support group has been life-changing. It’s given me a safe space to share my journey, connect with others who truly understand, and find strength in community,” says Cervivor community member Janet Tennyson, who’s been attending the virtual group from her home in California for the last few months. “Through our shared stories and support, I’ve gained hope, resilience, and the comfort of knowing I’m never alone.”

How does Cervivor address stigma?

The stigma surrounding HPV and cervical cancer often leads to misinformation, fear, and silence, which can hinder prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. At Cervivor, we tackle stigma head-on, especially through our Creating Connections virtual meetings. Here are some of the ways they help lessen stigma:

Sharing Personal Stories and Experiences

We create a safe space for individuals to share their personal stories, experiences, and struggles with cervical cancer and HPV-related diseases. By sharing their journeys, we put a face to the disease and show that it can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, or background.

Promoting Education and Awareness

We cultivate an environment where individuals feel comfortable discussing their experiences, asking questions, and seeking support. We know that education is key to dispelling myths and misconceptions surrounding cervical cancer and HPV-related diseases. We provide accurate and reliable information to help individuals understand the disease, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Open conversations help to break down barriers and reduce stigma.

Fostering a Sense of Community and Belonging

We bring individuals together to form a supportive community where they can connect, share, and support one another past our monthly virtual meeting. This sense of belonging helps to alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness, often associated with stigma.

Talitha Stempin, a Cervivor community member from Michigan shares her experience of joining last month’s call, “Creating Connections was so powerful! I connected with multiple people just during one session! I’m thankful for the new friends who GET IT!”

The Creating Connections Program is a testament to the transformative power of community. By tackling stigma and offering vital resources, Cervivor is making a profound impact on lives and cultivating a supportive network for those affected by cervical cancer.

How to Join

If you or someone you know is navigating this journey, know that support, hope, and healing are within reach. Join the Creating Connections Program to connect with others who understand your experience.

Ready to connect? 

  • Register now at https://cervivor.org/events/. 
  • When: The second Tuesday of every month
  • Where: Zoom platform (link provided upon registration)

Take the first step towards a supportive community. Register today and find connection, hope, and healing.