1. Trust your instincts

2. Listen to your body

3. Insist on further checks or treatments

In my case, I have learned that scans do not tell/show the whole picture. In 2011, I had various scans and needle checks on my thyroid,  I was then told my left thyroid needs to be removed. After my operation, the surgeon told me he had discovered lymphoma cancer and removed it during my operation. As part of my treatment, I had radiotherapy and was given the all clear after a few months. At that point, I was informed I could get the same cancer in my stomach and had a scan to check this. During the scan, the doctors discovered I had multiple fibroids and a cyst on my left ovary but it wasn't cancerous. It was in 2012 I started my menopause and  eventually stopped bleeding after a few years therefore, was told the fibroids have shrunk.

At the start of 2019, I was worried about the cyst so I went back to my GP and asked to be referred to have it looked out.  I was sent to the Gynaecological clinic at Queens Hospital and was sent for an ultra sound scan. Following the scan, I was told they can either monitor or remove the cyst. I told them I would like it removed so that I do not have to worry about it becoming cancerous. They agreed and I was informed that they will have to remove my ovaries and tubes by having key hole surgery. However, whilst the surgeons were performing surgery they noticed other suspicious cells/abnormalities and decided only to take biopsies instead of carrying out surgery. 

They suspected I may have ovarian or appendix cancer. I think the doctors were more shocked than I was as it wasn't something they had expected. Although I did not have many symptoms, in the back of my mind I felt something was not right. As soon as I was told, the three words I remember saying were "I knew it". It was at this point the surgeon advised that I would need a CT scan to find out the nature of the cancer.  

After 2 weeks, it was confirmed it is Ovarian Cancer, Stage 3 - high grade. I would need a full hysterectomy at Royal London and 6 cycles of chemotherapy afterwards. The surgeon told me they were not certain the cancer had spread to my bowel and will only know when they operate. He also explained that I may well need a stoma bag if they had to remove a large part of my bowel. I told him I did not want it if it's something that can be avoided.  

The operation took place on Friday 15th November 2019 and was successful. However, following the op, the surgeon found that the cancer cells had spread to the bowel and colon, specifically in the small intestine. This was not great news but, the surgeon was hopeful that chemotherapy would kill the infected cells. However, if chemotherapy does not remove the infected cells and the cancer spreads, then a second operation would be needed to remove the infected area. Should this happen I would need a stoma bag. 

Since the operation I am recovering well, but have a small infection after the staples were removed. I have had 2 lots of antibiotics and have been told I can start chemotherapy after 17th December when the infection has cleared. I have to have a CT Scan before chemotherapy and another one after three cycles of chemotherapy. The results will then be checked and the doctors will decide if I need further surgery or more chemotherapy.

I have researched and looked into the CBD Oils. Although we know doctors cannot advise or comment, this is something I am trying within my journey as I have seen it has worked for others and have trusted support in this area. Fingers crossed it clears and I don't have to have a stoma bag or further surgery.

I'm so glad that I insisted they remove my cyst, otherwise they wouldn't have discovered the cancer!

I have been told the medication I will have to take during chemotherapy will most certainly cause my hair to shed.  I have therefore, decided to cut my hair short in aid of Macmillan Cancer, with the support of several members of my family who will be joining me.  Since my diagnoses, Macmillan Cancer have supported me throughout my journey and help those with cancer live life as fully as they can, providing physical, financial and emotional support.