(Written from the view of the patient)
A Story Shared – Challenges Faced & Overcome
For 20 years I was sick, not knowing what was the matter with me. 10 years ago I was diagnosed with depression, fibromyalgia and burnout. I saw every possible doctor, which meant more medication.
After more tests were done in November 2021 I was diagnosed with cervical cancer. At first it was a shock. I was not prepared for this. At age 15 I had lost my Mom to cancer. Many images of the past returned where I saw what my Mom had to endure. Now it was I, at age 45, I was notified that I will need to have surgery done to remove the cancer – a procedure called a radical hysterectomy. The reality that I will no longer be able to have kids was something I needed to work through and process by myself. The surgery was a success. However, the Oncologist still wanted me to go for further treatment. That was a huge challenge for me.
After the surgery I was still dealing with not being able to walk properly; no lifting of heavy things; or driving my car.. It was hard. I was fully dependent on others. I felt robbed of my independence. Even though I had an amazing support system around me, I still felt robbed of my life. Funny enough I never asked the question: “Why me?” I kept telling myself I’m not just a cancer survivor, I’m a cancer overcomer.
Treatment started – 5 chemo sessions and 29 radiation sessions. During the treatment sessions I told myself, “I’ve got this.” Or so I thought … The nursing staff, doctors, and other cancer patients were absolutely amazing. They became my extended family. The cancer lounge became a safe space where age, race, sex and where you come from, didn’t matters. There was no judgement, only just love and support.
After a few chemo and radiation sessions, the side effects started. Something I was not prepared for. Nausea, diarrhea and fatigue kicked in. Something you cannot explain to others. You have to be near a bathroom 24/7.
I became very weak with chronic fatigue. I struggled to have long conversations with friends and family. My dad struggled to understand it. Dad has been in denial since the first day. Isolation started to creep in. Financially it was tough, as I had not been prepared for big expenses. At one stage I had 3 panic attacks which was a first for me.
After surgery and treatment, I slowly started to return to society. This is the time when I needed people the most. Re-entering into society was hard. After 3 months of a totally different lifestyle I had to adapt. At first it was a shock to the system.
One important lesson I learned was to pace myself. Start small and everyday add a little bit more. Go for a short walk in a beautiful tranquil place. Hug a tree. Listen to motivation talks.
People expect that everything returns to normal once you have completed all your treatments. That is not always the case. Don’t feel guilty by saying NO to things and to people. Listen to your body. Give your body enough resting time and be gentle to yourself.
GenesisLightFoundation 