Pattiann’s Story (Cervical Cancer, Ovarian Cancer)

I started having problems at the age of 16. I had heavy menstrual cycles pain. At 17 I went to see a gynecologist who examined me and placed me on birth control. At 21 I had continuous lengthy periods along with extreme pain.

I found that I had cervical cancer. I was treated with a partial removal. I was pretty good for a few years until I started having bloating, pain, and menstrual irregularity. I found out that I had a large fibroid wrapped around the appendix and intestines. I had a bilateral oophorectomy appendectomy and hysterectomy. I was diagnosed with a rare type of ovarian cancer called fibrosarcoma. That explained the tumor removed at the base of my skull and a tumor removed from left breast. These tumors pop up anywhere and grow from fibrous tissues. There is not much known about this. It is now treated by early detection and removal.

I have been having PET scans, CT scans, and ultra sounds for the past six years. I was told not to take hormone therapy except to suppress hormones. I live one day at a time. Each time my CEA or CA-125 elevates I pretty much know something is going on. Fortunately, I have great physicians who catch everything early. My lasts tests revealed a tumor in the gall bladder duct and two lesions in the lower lobes of the lung and one outside. We are watching and waiting until surgical intervention is necessary. In the meantime I have blood work and steroids for pain and inflammation in mild doses. I constantly fight to keep my immune system strong. I do not take pain medication but I take promethazine to eat.

I am pretty strong : I care for an 86 year old dad, look after a brother, and believe in positive thoughts and energy. I cannot give into this fight because I am stronger. I just stay prepared and go with the doctors recommendations. EVERY day is a blessing and many are far worse than me. By the grace of God I am comforted and come winning every time! God bless all who are battling. Never give in to the disease.

Pattiann
New York
Submitted 01/22/2014

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.