shared decision making

Be Your Own Advocate

As we begin this new year, Cervivor, Inc. wants to empower you to take control of your health and well-being by being your own advocate. Advocacy comes in many forms, from lobbying on Capitol Hill to raise awareness about cervical cancer to supporting research and education initiatives. While grand, large-scale advocacy efforts are crucial in creating systemic change, it’s essential to remember that not all advocacy has to be big and bold. 

In fact, some of the most powerful forms of advocacy start with small, everyday actions, such as asking questions, seeking second opinions, and ensuring you receive the care and answers you deserve. By being your own advocate, you can take charge of your health, make informed decisions, and inspire others to do the same. We’re inspired by the stories of individuals within our Cervivor community, such as Patty Larson from Minnesota, who embodies the spirit of self-advocacy in her journey into survivorship after cervical cancer. Here is her journey in her own words:

Patty Larson, Cervical Cancer Survivor

“I was diagnosed with 1B2 clear cell adenocarcinoma of the cervix in September 2018. I did two types of treatment followed by two years of maintenance chemotherapy as prevention. I am now 4.5 years with no evidence of disease (NED) and I wake up every single morning feeling very blessed, but there are still some days I am not ok!

I don’t suffer from too many physical side effects. Once in a while, I have neuropathy in my left foot. Taking L-glutamine has really helped keep that at bay. Walking and being active is the real key, though. I am grateful that I am able to get in many steps while working as a part-time hairstylist. Once in a blue moon, I have digestive issues if I eat something too rich and I pay for it later by using the bathroom more than usual.

The biggest thing that just recently hit me is the long-term side effect of weight gain! The chemotherapy damaged my thyroid pretty badly, so I take a prescription thyroid medication. The struggle is real and lately, it is starting to affect my self-image. While I feel good physically for the most part, my endocrinologist does not listen to me. I have asked her to change my dose but because my bloodwork falls in the normal range, she said I am fine. 

But I don’t feel fine! I am gaining weight for no other reason; now, I weigh about what I did when I was pregnant. I am active between work and working out and I also have good eating habits. I recently brought up these issues and feelings with my oncologist. She listened better and has referred me to a weight management center! I am so happy! 

My biggest piece of advice for cancer patients and survivors is to advocate for your health and keep doing it until you finally find that person who will listen to you. Never stop trying and never stop fighting, even on your bad days.”

Empowering a Community of Advocates

As we reflect on the power of individual advocacy, we invite you to join the Cervivor community in sharing your own story of resilience and determination. By sharing your written narrative on our website, you can help inspire others to take control of their health and become their own advocates.

We also encourage healthcare providers, organizations, and individuals to partner with us in sharing crucial resources for education and support. Together, we can create a ripple effect of empowerment, ensuring that every person affected by cervical cancer has access to the care and information they deserve. 

Whether through sharing your story, volunteering, or simply spreading the word about our mission, every action counts, and every voice matters. Join us in amplifying the message of self-advocacy and helping to create a world where no one faces cervical cancer alone.

Patty Larson lives in Minnesota. She is a self-employed hairstylist who works part-time. Her clients and team were a big part of staying positive during cancer treatment. Patty is excited to get involved with cervical cancer advocacy. 

From Advocacy to Support

We believe that patient advocacy is the catalyst for meaningful change in the mission to end cervical cancer. That’s why we’ve dedicated ourselves to training and amplifying the voices of patients and survivors, ensuring that their unique perspectives shape the narrative and inform decision-making. By centering the patient perspective – both individually and collectively – we’re creating a powerful community voice that demands attention, sparks action, and drives progress. 

Through our advocacy efforts, we’re not just reacting to the status quo; we’re actively creating the change we want to see – a world where cervical cancer is detected early, treated with dignity and compassion, and prevented. By elevating the patient voice, we’re rewriting the story of cervical cancer and paving the way for a brighter future for generations to come.

As July, our self-proclaimed Patient Advocacy Month comes to a close, we are proud of our progress in amplifying the voices of cervical cancer patients and survivors. Our small team of dedicated cervical cancer survivors and vast global community of passionate volunteers has worked tirelessly to raise awareness, educate, and advocate for policy changes that benefit our community.

But our work continues. 

We want to emphasize that every story matters in our mission to end cervical cancer. We know that each person’s experience with cervical cancer is unique, and we’re committed to providing a safe space for sharing those stories. Our support programming empowers survivors and patients to take control of their health, connect with others who understand their journey, and find resources and information to navigate the complex healthcare system. 

What We Offer

  • Online Support Groups: A safe space to connect with others who share similar experiences.
  • Mentorship: Pairing patients with trained survivors who can offer guidance and support.
  • Educational Resources: Accurate and reliable information on cervical cancer diagnosis, treatment, and beyond.
  • Community Events: Opportunities to connect in person and build a supportive community.

As we launch into highlighting our support programming, we invite you to join us. Share your story, connect with others, find the support you need, and be a crucial part of the community. Together, we can create a world where no one feels alone in their journey and cervical cancer will be a thing of the past.

Get Involved

  • Follow Us: On social media to stay up-to-date on our support programming and community events.
  • Share: Your story and inspire others to do the same.
  • Sign Up: Are you a provider or community support person? Become a Partner in Purpose.
  • Donate: Support our mission and help us continue to provide vital resources and support to our community

We’re reminded that the journey to healing and wholeness is not a solitary one. Creating connections with others who understand our struggles is the foundation upon which we build resilience. Access to trusted resources empowers us to take control of our health and well-being. And it’s the undeniable sense of community – the feeling of being seen, heard, and supported – that accelerates our healing. 

At Cervivor, Inc., we believe that these elements are the pillars of a supportive ecosystem that cultivates hope, facilitates growth, and transforms patients and survivors into thrivers. Join us in cultivating this community, and we’ll rise stronger, more united, and more determined than ever to overcome the challenges of cervical cancer.