On 30th December 2019 I was told the devastating news that I have cervical cancer. I sat across from the doctor in disbelief as I tried to take in the news. I attended the appointment on my own that day as I felt I had nothing to worry about. How incredibly wrong was I.
34 years of age, fit, healthy & regular smear tests with no unusual symptoms. In the space of 4 years a tumour under 2cm had grown in my cervix. A tumour that if left would have grown and eventually killed me. That smear saved my life!
Fast forward February 23rd and I was being wheeled down to theatre to undergo a radical hysterectomy. The surgeon was removing my womb, a place I had carried 5 babies, lost 3 and welcomed 2 into the world. My fallopian tubes & lymph nodes were also being removed & my ovaries stitched elsewhere in my body to save early menopause. As they put me to sleep the tears felt heavy on my face as I thought of my kids age 1 and 6 & if I'd see them again.
7 hours later & surgery was a success. I was allowed home to my family to recover. My journey wasn't over!
19th March I was given my results, a long, anxious 4 weeks after surgery. I was told there was still residue is my cervix & meant I needed further treatment. I'll undergo a heavy 5 days a week for 5 weeks of radiotherapy, chemotherapy and brachytherapy on the 20th April.
Throughtout my cancer journey I have read and saw the amazing support provided by the staff at the Maggies Centre in Kirkcaldy. Unfortunately due to Covid-19 I have been unable to attend the Centre but have spoken with the staff via phone. I plan to attend an aftercare programme that they provide to help me deal with my cancer diagnosis & move forward. I feel the staff go over and above to help people and their families living with cancer. I would like to donate any money raised in the #emma250 challenge to this amazing centre.
(250 challenge created by my crossfit gym Aeternum) see link:

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Aeternum-Crossfit/1936714983216389