Chris Erica's Story: A few weeks ago, I went to my local doctor feeling incredibly unwell. After an initial examination and a referral by the doctor for x-rays and further tests. On September 16th following a biopsy I was given the devastating news that I had cervical cancer. At first, I was told it had possibly spread to my ovaries but they were unsure and there was the possibility of only needing surgery. After the results of the MRI, biopsy and scans were received I was told that the mass was too great to operate on and the cancer had spread. I was diagnosed with Stage III Ovarian Cancer and I am in desperate need of radiology and chemotherapy.

It feels strange thing to realise and accept your own mortality, it is just one of those things you don’t think about as you go to work every day and get on with life. I always imagined myself growing old and wrinkled caused by raising my beautiful sons. As a single mom it was always challenging but the rewards and love, far outweigh any challenge I have ever faced.

I live in Zimbabwe with my 3 sons, where basic daily living conditions are challenging. My medical aid covers some treatment but since the radiology machines in the biggest hospitals in Zimbabwe are all broken, I cannot have affordable treatment. There are no prospects of the hospitals having the machines up and running in a time that will benefit me. I have been searching desperately all around the country for a working radiology machine, to my dismay only one is available privately at a high cost in US dollars. I am told my life expectancy without this treatment is very short and I am considered terminal if I do not get treatment promptly. I would like to raise the money for treatment, the consultations will have to be done at the private clinic and everyone will cost.

Since I have been diagnosed, I have met the most incredibly giving, loving and kind people and been the receiver of the most thoughtful and loving words and support from my family, friends and strangers; More than I could I ever give in return. I will never forget this and will be forever grateful to you all. I would like to thank everyone who supports me with love, finances and well wishes. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing and everything you are all doing

Love Chris Erica xxx