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Cheryl’s Story (Endometrial Cancer)

Cheryl's Story Endometrial Uterine CancerMy journey into this whole mess started back a year ago. I started bleeding heavily for several months which prompted me to go to the doctor’s and get it checked out. I had various tests done and was then referred to an Ob Gyn for further tests. I had a really good doctor who was very informative and kind and answered my questions that I had. I was scheduled for my first biopsy in August of 2014. I got the results back a few days later, and they hadn’t found any pre-cancerous cells, but they found the lining of my uterus wasn’t shedding like it was supposed to, and so it had built up a lot. I was put on hormone therapy for the next 6 months, and by all accounts, things were good. My bleeding stopped and was “normal” as can be.

In December, I was reminded by my near empty pill bottle that I needed to get in touch with my Ob Gyn again. I phoned her office and was given an appointment for the first week of January. I was also told that at this appointment I would have my 2nd biopsy. I assumed things would be the same like they were back in August. A week went by and nothing about my results. I admit, I was a little worried because it seemed to be taking so long. A friend of mine tried to reassure me by saying maybe they were backed up and busy. I was hoping that was the case. Then, on January 21st, my Ob Gyn’s office phoned to ask if I could come in at noon on January 22nd, go figure, which so happened to be my son’s 10th birthday. I, of course, said yes. I didn’t sleep at all that night. I had a feeling something was wrong. Sometimes, one just knows…. a gut feeling if you will.

Waiting in the “little” room sometimes seems like a lifetime. My Mom was with me, and we talked about the cute Anne Geddes pictures hanging on the wall to bide the time. A few minutes later, my Ob Gyn walked into the room, and I could tell by the look on her face it wouldn’t be good news. She sat down and looked at me and said, ” I got the results of your biopsy, and I’m sorry to tell you, but they found cancer in the lining of your uterus.” I felt my heart fall into my stomach, and as she kept talking about what would happen next, the tears started coming. I tried with everything in me not to cry, but I couldn’t help it. I could hear my Mom crying next to me and couldn’t look at her.

I was diagnosed with having Endometrial Uterine Cancer at age 37. I don’t know what will happen in the next few months, but I do know the journey will be a roller coaster. I am thankful that I have my faith in God to rely on, and the strength of my family and friends. During the night, around 3 AM, a song popped into my head, and it was called “He Leadeth Me.” This song has always meant a lot to me. It was sung at my older brother’s funeral when he died at the age of 17. I found it interesting that particular song came into my head at night while I was crying. I felt like my brother was there with me, telling me, “Hey sis, you got this. It’ll be ok.”

With this thought, my journey begins. As I look at the little gift my Mom gave me yesterday, with the inscription, “Every day is a gift,” I will do my best to be positive, have faith, and fight the good fight.

UPDATE (4-7-15):

Cheryl Update

This is a milestone update for myself.  I was diagnosed with Endometrial Uterine Cancer back in January 2015. Due to the results from my biopsy back then, I was told I needed to have surgery.  I recently had this surgery on March 25th, and I had a total Abdominal Hysterectomy, Midline Laparotomy, Bilateral Salpingectomy and a Unilateral Oophorectomy. I am going through early menopause and all the emotions that go with that. I’m 37, so I wasn’t sure what to expect per se, but I’m hanging in there. I’m still healing, and when I think back to the day after surgery, being in a lot of pain, feeling frustrated, sad… I’ve come a long way. I survived the surgery, the pain, the tears, and am healing and had my staples removed on April 1st. I’m still having a troublesome spot on my incision, but am keeping the faith that it will heal and that I don’t have any further complications. I find out in 2 weeks time exactly what they found and whether or not my cancer has spread and whether or not I’ll need chemo/radiation treatment. Again, I have HOPE and FAITH that everything will be alright and my journey continues. Thanks for being along for the ride!

UPDATE (8-24-15):

Cheryl's Story Update 2

I had my uterus, ovary, Fallopian tubes, and cervix removed in March, and I went through a lot of pain, tears, frustration and moments where I just wanted to give up. If it wasn’t for my family and friends’ support, I know I couldn’t have made it. When I look back at all the things I went through, the hope that kept me fighting is what keeps me going on my journey thus far. I have since healed from the surgery, and sure, I have one nasty looking scar, but it just proves I’m a fighter. It took me a while to get used to having another scar. I admit that wasn’t easy to get over. However, it’s a part of me now, and it’s a reminder of how far I’ve come.

In May 2015,  I went to see my oncologist to find out whether or not my cancer had spread beyond the lining of my uterus. My Mom and I sat together, waiting in the room with all the shiny stainless steel equipment, and I do admit I was worried. I was holding my breath when my Mom jolted me with her elbow and said, “Just breathe.” My oncologist entered the room and had my file in her hand. She asked me to sit on the table as she sat down and opened up the folder. She started to speak, and I was more or less in a daze because I didn’t realize I was holding my breath again. It was when she said, “From the looks of things, we are happy to say the cancer did not spread beyond the lining of the uterus. You are free of cancer,” that I finally let out a huge sigh of relief and felt the tears fall from happiness. That moment was indescribable. I am, as they say, “cancer free,” and I had my whole summer to look forward to and enjoy and no longer had a dark cloud over my head.

I have truly enjoyed my summer with my family and friends and am thankful every day that I get up and enjoy life. Due to the surgery I had, I was thrust into early menopause and that, for me, has become my next hill, so to speak. The hot flashes are such a pain, and they come at the oddest times. During the summer months, I admit that was annoying, especially when it was over 30 degrees Celsius outside. The depression was something I was not ready for. I struggled to admit that I was depressed, but I finally admitted it to my Mom and my best friend. With their encouragement, I finally went to my doctor for some help. One may think that once the surgeries are over and the cancer is gone that the journey ends. I’ve come to learn that’s not always the case. Another door has closed, and another one has opened. I am still adjusting to having menopause, but I’m a fighter, and this too will pass.

I go back in November 2015 to be tested for cancer again, and it’s always at the back of my mind, if I’m being honest with myself. I do admit there are the odd days that I stay up at night and overthink things. However, for the most part, I’m just hoping that it stays away and am continuing to live and enjoy life to the fullest. Thank you to those who have been inquiring about my journey and to those who write to just ask questions or share their stories with me. I do my best to keep in touch and share in the hope and faith that things will go well for you too. Last, but not least, thank you Fight Like A Girl Club. You have been there for me all along, and I’m so thankful to have found your website. Best wishes and keep up the good work!! 🙂

Love,

Cheryl
Canada
Submitted 01/24/2015

The informational content of this article is intended to convey a personal experience and, because every person’s experience is unique, should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional healthcare advice.

This story is intended to convey a personal experience and, because every person’s experience is unique, should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional healthcare advice.

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22 comments

  1. Jessie

    Hi Cheryl, your story brought me to tears. I’m on here for endometriosis but saw there was one story on uterine cancer. Have you started treatment yet? God bless you.

  2. Cheryl

    Hi Jessie, as of now, I’m not sure what was found during my surgery. I find out on May 5th, exactly what they found and if my cancer has spread beyond the lining of my uterus. I’ll know more after this date and what if anything, my plan will be. I’m thankful to have good Oncologists on my team, so all I can do for the moment, is hope for the best. 😉

  3. kimmie

    Hi Cheryl,
    I, too, have been diagnosed with endometrial cancer. I just found out on Monday, 4/20. I am being sent to the oncologist and unfortunately I can’t get in until May 55th. I expect to have a hysterectomy. The unknown is awful. You are fortunate to have your mom for support. I’m still grieving my mother’s passing. She passed away 12/10/14.
    I wish you a complete recovery!

    • Cheryl

      Hi Kimmie, I’m so sorry to read about your Mom passing away. I can’t even begin to imagine what that must feel like… As for being diagnosed with Endometrial Cancer, it’s a hard thing to deal with. However, I’ve learned one needs to take it one day at a time. Seems May 5th will be quite the day for you and I. I do hope you have a support system, whether it be through friends, or extended family. I don’t know where I’d be without my family and friends. I wish you all the best as you start your journey. Can always write here, if you want. Take care and and sending hugs and positive vibes your way! Thanks also for the well wishes, my healing is going well. 🙂

  4. Cindy

    Hi! I’m in the same situation as you. I’m also 37 and my surgery is scheduled for tomorrow. Not exactly ready for it or the covert process but guess I don’t have much of a choice.

    • Cheryl

      Hi Cindy,

      Keep holding on, fight the good fight, and keep hope alive. I don’t think anyone can ever be “ready” to have surgery, but know this, it will pass. After all the pain, the tears, the frustrations, I never gave up and with a good support system, it goes a long way. Take one day at time and I hope and wish you a speedy recovery. ~Hugs~

      • Brenda

        Hi Cheryl,
        Thank you for sharing your story. Are you able to share your update since results in May?
        Prayers,
        Brenda

        • Cheryl

          Hi Brenda, for sure I can give another update. I hadn’t been on this site over the summer months, because I was enjoying the summver vacation with my son and being stress free. 😀 Thanks for inquiring about how I am doing. <3

  5. Breene

    Hello Cheryl , I wanted to know if you could tell me a bit more of your symptoms my mom has been going through a situation involving the uterus but the doctors don’t seem to know what it is. Thank you I would greatly appreciate it.

    • Cheryl

      Hello Breene, firstly, know things are different for everyone. For myself though, it started with next to no periods over several months to extremely heavy bleeding, for weeks non-stop. I was very tired from losing a lot of blood over several months, so I knew something wasn’t right. I also had some pain off and on in my abdomen. I did have fibroids, cysts from Endometriosis, so that was always a concern. Due to the heavy bleeding, my Gynocologist put me on Hormone therapy to try and regulate my periods. I also had a build up of lining tissue ( a mass) from the uterus not shedding normally over several months. I had a biospy done for this reason, before I started the hormone therapy and that came back as clear. It wasn’t until January, after being on hormone therapy for several months that the 2nd biopsy came back as having cancer cells in the lining of my uterus. I must note though, the hormone therapy did help regulate my periods. Ultimately, it was the biopsies that saved me. I am forever thankful to my 2 Gynocologists that perservered. I don’t know if this helps or not, but those were the symptoms and journey I had. I truly hope that the Doctors figure out what is going on with your Mother. Never give up and keep fighting for an answer. I’ll keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

      • chantal

        hi there cheryl-fellow canuck here-praising god with you for your journey…was wondering if you ever speak to anyone personally…id love to chat with you about what i am going through right now…

  6. chantal

    hi there cheryl-fellow canuck here-praising god with you for your journey…was wondering if you ever speak to anyone personally…id love to chat with you about what i am going through right now…

    • Cheryl

      Hi there Chantal! I’m willing to talk to anyone that wants to share their stories with me, or who just needs someone to talk to. I know walking this journey is like riding a roller-coaster. Sometimes, one just needs someone who’s been there and understands. I am on FB, and following Fight Like A Girl there, so if you leave a msg there on their wall, I’ll find you. 🙂 Take care ^^

  7. Willow

    I had a pelvic and TV ultrasound Oct.23rd 2015 for abnormal bleeding and pelvic pain. The results were a 1.1 lesion centered in the endometrium or junctional zone. They couldn’t tell what the lesion was so I was supposed to get a biopsy done within a week. I never got it….I don’t have insurance but I’ve applied more medicaid….still pending whether or not I’m eligible. I’m 41 and am embarrassed to say that I’m 6 years behind on a pap. Years ago, I had abnormal cells on my cervix which resulted in cryotherapy. I’m scared but I think I’m a bit in denial which is why I haven’t pushed forward with getting a biopsy. A 1.1 cm lesion doesn’t sound too scary…maybe it’s just a polyp? My periods are definitely heavier than normal but they’re not constant.

    • Cheryl

      Hello Willow, sorry for the delayed response. I do hope you had a Merry Christmas and I hope your New Year will be bright with hope, love, and peace. Thanks for sharing your story with me. It’s ok to be scared of things that are out of the norm. I do think paps are a good thing if one can get one done. Of course this is my own opinion. However, in my case, that is what saved me from having an advanced form of Endometrial Uterine cancer. They caught it early and I’m thankful of that every day thus far. I encourage you to get things checked out. You’re worth it, and never forget that. Stay strong, and I hope everything works out for you.

  8. Derinda Hobson

    I too was diagnosed with uterine cancer in August 2014. It all started when I went for my annual check up in June 2014. I wasn’t having any problems. When he was doing a pelvic check he said my uterus felt enlarged and I needed to have an ultrasound. Made the appointment and didn’t feel like there was anything wrong that I should be concerned about. However, the tech said the doctor would come in and talk to me about the results. He said my lining was 5 times thicker than normal and my uterus enlarged and I needed to have a DNC and a hysteroscopy. This was scheduled for August 5th. I went for my follow up appointment on August 11th, my daughter’s 23rd birthday. Feeling like everything was going to be good and I didn’t really think about it. I went to the appointment and was waiting in the examining room when my doctor came in. He said he had received my results on the Friday before but it was not the type of news you want to give someone over the phone. He proceeded to tell me I had that UGLY word that started with a “C” – Cancer. I was shocked and I don’t really remember much about what he said from that point on except that I need to have a complete hysterectomy the following week. He said he knew I was in shock and couldn’t comprehend what he was saying and that I would have alot of questions later and for mr to call him and he would make time to answe all of them. I don’t even remember driving home from the doctors office. I went to tell my parents and husband but couldn’t tell my daughter on her birthday. or my son. Therefor I waited until the next day. My family was all there for my surgery. It was a success and the doctor says I am cancer free. It had not spread into my lympnodes or beyond the linning. I am 51 now and have the hot flashes. I am grateful for my doctors knowledge and experience to know that something was not right and continued to look and explore what was wrong. If not I may not have had the results I received.

    • Cheryl

      Hello Derinda, I’m so glad that everything worked out for you! I completely understand the feeling of shock and not comprehending everything. It feels like a whirlwind, that you somehow manage to get through. I really hope things continue to go well for you, and that you have many more cancer free days.
      I’m going on 9 months, being free of cancer. I’m so thankful for everyday, I can wake up and just LIVE.
      All the best to you and your family!

  9. Laura

    Hi Cheryl. I’m 40 years old, and have been feeling awful for several months . I have had abdominal pain almost daily now, bloating, pressure , and backaches. Had a pap done in August, came back normal. Went back to my doctor twice in December because my symptoms worsened. I have had an enlarged uterus and fibroids for a few years now and the lining of my uterus is a little thick. Small cysts in ovaries and doc says there’s nothing to be concerned about. Gave me hormone pills and pain killers. Just went back to Dr. Yesterday due to bleeding between my period and my pain is getting worse. He is going to give me an endometriosis biopsy next Friday and NOW he wants to schedule my hysterectomy . I’m really scared now.

    • Cheryl

      Hi Laura, I’m sorry to read you’re going through a lot of pain and have been feeling scared. When one hears words like cysts, fibroids, biopsies, it’s enough to make one’s head spin. One can’t help, but feel a sense of doom. I went through the pain of having an ovary rupture when i was 20, because of a cyst. I had that ovary removed and it was scary. It’s ok to be scared. We’re human, and what helps is asking questions and getting more information before making a decision. That way, you are in control of your health plan and can make an informed decision. I found writing down questions before going to an appointment helped a lot. In the moment, one sometimes forgets to asks questions because it can seem like a whirlwind. Before I had my surgery, I made sure I knew of my options before deciding it was best to have everything removed to prevent cancer from growing elsewhere. So far to date, it was a good decision. Still, I do have moments of regret when I look at my son and realize he won’t have a biological sibling. However, I’m still here to be his Mom. Just because one has a hysterectomy, doesn’t mean it’s the end. It isn’t easy to have surgery for sure, and feeling scared is normal. However, after every storm, is a calm, after every night, is a morning…I truly hope this message finds you well and best wishes to you!

  10. Gina

    Hey, there. I’m 37, and was just diagnosed on 2/22/16 with Endometrial carcinoma. I’m having surgery on 3/10/16. I’m having exactly what you had done. Thank you for sharing your story and giving me hope.

    Gina in Ohio

    • Cheryl

      Hi Gina, I’m glad I happened to check this site today and found your message in time. In a few days I see, you’ll be having surgery. I truly wish you all the best and that you have a speedy recovery. Having surgery is always a scary thing to process, but it’s over before you know it. Healing takes a while, but the more one moves around, the easier it gets. Hold onto hope, have faith, and just breathe…this too shall pass. All the best and sending good vibes your way!! Take care!

  11. Tracy

    Thanks for your insight and victory story!
    I am 41, mother of 7 (4 biologically mine). I have had endometriosis for years but it elevated with a good natural diet and supplement regimine.more recently my periods became increasingly longer and way more painful.

    I had an ultrasound a couple weeks ago that showed a golf ball size “fibroid” and that my uterus has a septum (who knew after 4 kids and numerous laparoscopies). They did a biopsy the other day and I’m having a difficult time not being worried as my mom had a rare form of uterine cancer which she survived when I was little.

    God is good and I feel so terrible even having a bit of fear but I’m human with a bunch of beautiful spirits that depend on me.

    I’ll check back again! Blessings to you and thank you again!

    Tracy

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