Hello everybody, as a newby to this site I thought I’d introduce myself & share my cancer history.
I have always followed the guidelines regarding Cervical screening and up until 2010 they have come back clear.
In 2007 HPV started showing up but with “no abnormal cells”. In 2010 HPV with abnormal cells which resulted in a visit to the Colposcopy clinic where part of my outer Cervix was removed. I then started having annual screening & sure enough HPV was still present “no abnormal cells” until 2017. Once again a trip to Colposcopy resulted in virtually the whole of my outer Cervix being removed. Now at this point the clinic suggested that if it was still present my only option was to have a Hysterectomy but not to worry because HPV rarely turns into Cancer.
Scroll forward to 2023..Back in my local hospital because HPV present with “high grade” cell changes found. The consultant suggested that I could carry on as I was (annual smear tests) or opt for a Hysterectomy. I opted for the latter.
In November 2024 I had a Radical Hysterectomy & lo & behold they found Cancer which had spread outside the Cervix & was now in the lining of my Pelvis.
I’ve just completed 5 Chemo & 33 Radiotherapy sessions.
It’s been a long journey & based on how I’m feeling now (Sciatic pain in my Pelvis) there’s much more to come!
I was pleased to hear that they now offer a vaccine to young girls & boys now so hopefully HPV will become a thing of the past.
Hi Proudtobewelsh and welcome to the MacMillan community.
I am Sarah, one of the volunteer Community Champions in the community and we try to direct newcomers to the most appropriate group for support.
The best place to join would be our cervical cancer support group
If you click on the link I’ve made it will take you directly there and you can join the group by clicking on the “join” banner across the page. Then you could make your own post and introduce yourself to us.
Many of us (including myself) have been through the chemoradiation treatment, and we have discussions about all stages and treatments for cervical cancer.
I hope to see you there and you can connect with others who’ve been through similar experiences.
Sarah xx
