I was diagnosed with stage 1 uterine cancer. My only symptom was that I felt a ‘sense of dread.’ The GP stated that it was a change of life; I disagreed and opted for a self-referral to a specialist I worked with, who conducted tests six months apart and found that abnormal cells in my uterus had multiplied.

When I was first diagnosed, I was angry that my GP did not investigate my concerns. I was lucky I acted on my instincts. If I weren't a nurse and just trusted what my GP had said, it would have been a very different story for me. I strongly believe that women need to have more confidence in being more proactive. If you feel something is wrong, it is. If it barks like a dog, it is a dog. Don’t hesitate to get a second/another medical opinion until you are satisfied.

As of today, I have completed treatment. I was declared cancer-free in April 2020.

I had an initial appointment with a specialist who booked the first scans and tests. I then had a second appointment with the specialist after six months, for follow-up scans and tests to review the abnormal cell growth in the uterus. I then underwent a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure to confirm the results of the test, with further consultation, after which I was booked for a radical hysterectomy within two or three months. During surgery, the doctor found that the abnormal cells were encapsulated in the uterus, so thankfully, no chemo was needed. I have since continued with follow-up appointments as necessary.

I decided on my treatment plan based on my own research, advice from family and friends, and my doctor’s recommendation. As a nurse, I was aware of what my options were and discussed those with my specialist. I also had a friend who had chosen to take medication (hormone therapy) over surgery, and she passed away as a result of the uterine cancer progressing to metastatic cancer of the bowel and liver.

After deciding on my treatment plan, I felt a little fearful of the unknown, and, if I am honest, a strong ‘sense of loss.’ I think all women will understand that. I have had one baby (stillborn, in 1982) and no other children, so there was some sadness. Today, the feeling of loss is intermittent but is getting better. I am just glad I am alive; some women are not lucky enough to get a second chance at life.

As for financing treatment, I covered the treatment costs myself.

The most severe side effect I experienced was fatigue, followed by weight fluctuations. I managed these side effects through increased exercise frequency, improved nutrition, self-care, and not being hard on myself. I am a very active, motivated person, so I have had to rearrange things in my life to accommodate the new me.

I continued working after I was diagnosed with cancer. I went back to full-time work 10 weeks after treatment. I then had to work up to 100 hours every fortnight through COVID lockdowns, so I did not have time to think about things too much.

In addition to my professional life, the cancer diagnosis brought challenges to my day-to-day life as well. These affected me the most, as I live on my own and had minimal support post-surgery, during the recovery period. I found this hard, but I also found ways to cope. I took one day at a time and made sure I prepared myself prior to surgery by cleaning my home and taking care of food, necessary items and medications. Recovery was slow, but going back to work was great. The hospital where I had my surgeries was also the hospital where I worked as a nurse.

Over the next two years, my future plans involve watching my health and socializing more, as I now do not feel as fragile.

Throughout my cancer journey, I dealt with the fear of losing my independence or the ability to care for myself. I tried to overcome this fear by focusing on physical recovery and staying active, and through practicing positive thinking and gratitude.

The most challenging aspect of being a cancer survivor has been the fear of recurrence and coping with a ‘new’ normal. I worked to overcome these challenges by reminding myself that I am alive.

I want people to know that life after cancer exists. It is great to live each day doing what you love with the people you love, because today is today, but tomorrow is not promised to anyone, cancer or not.

Today, I feel the same as I did before, but I am also more optimistic. I got the right help early and never doubted my own instincts. To all the women out there who live with endometriosis, monitor your health as you get older because you are at a higher risk for uterine cancer.

If I had to give practical advice to other cancer patients, I’d say trust your instincts and keep going to specialists for other opinions until it feels right to you. It is important to be in front of it, especially with cancer. Remember, cancer lives with you. An unexpected experience that I had during my cancer journey was people’s reactions to what was happening to me, especially my work colleagues’ reactions. People couldn’t believe me when I said that I had no obvious symptoms except a strong ‘sense of dread.’ Women, listen to your bodies. Cancer is not prejudiced; it can affect anyone. The tests were a bit impersonal, but hey, no one has died of embarrassment, but they have died of cancer.

I’d also like to say that your journey is your own. It is up to you to be strong and choose what is right for you and your circumstances. If you feel that there is something wrong with your health, take action quickly and go to as many people as it takes to get something done, as early intervention is important. Educate yourself on the choices of care offered and make a plan of care that suits your needs.