Sisterhood of Survivorship
Sharing, Caring, Surviving
Vicky's Story
Year Diagnosed: 2010
Type of Cancer: Uterine
I had a history of endometrial polyps and the biopsy in March 2010 showed that the polyps were benign. For many years, I had heavy menstrual periods accompanied by clots and D&C did not work. I had another heavy period in early July 2010. I was not worried at first because I was going through perimenopause. But after almost three weeks of heavy bleeding, I saw my gynecologist. A few days later, she called and told me that I had uterine cancer and she had spoken with a gynecologic oncologist. I was shocked and overwhelmed I had to call her back to confirm the diagnosis. I felt that my life was spinning out of control and the only way I could regain control was to know as much as I can about uterine cancer. I talked to our family friend who’s an oncologist and did research on the internet. I asked relatives and friends to pray for me and I prayed for faith, patience, and healing. During my first consultation with my gynecologic oncologist he stated that he scheduled the surgery right away because, considering my negative biopsy in March and my medical history, I had low risk for uterine cancer and yet got it. Less than a month after my diagnosis, I had laparoscopic hysterectomy and my uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes, and ovaries were removed. Staging was done during surgery and it was Stage 1A, the cancer was only in the endometrium which is the lining of the uterus. Since the cancer was caught early, surgery was enough and I did not need chemotherapy or radiation. Although my diagnosis was scary and overwhelming, my surgery and recovery was amazing. It had actually been a positive experience. I do not worry about the little stuff anymore. Our family is closer than ever. After my diagnosis, relatives and friends who had not been to doctors for years made appointments and had preventive screenings. Cancer changed my life and the lives of my family and friends. I’m lucky to have supportive family and friends and caring and knowledgeable doctors. I’m truly blessed and forever grateful!
So my advice to all of you, listen to your bodies and take care of yourselves.