Cancer Research UK main site

Teddy - My Story: Breast Cancer in 2019, Vaginal Cancer stage 4b in 2023

Ballag137
Offline

Hi   I am new to this forum. I was just reading about HPV Virus which prompted me to write.

 I was put on hormone tablet after being diagnosed with breast cancer Dec 2019  aged 65, and got all clear.  I developed a vaginal discharge which I thought was a side effect from the tablet. I  had a vaginal swab done which was clear, also given and anti biotics  but I still had symptoms. 

I asked for a smear test in 2022   I was 68 by then, and it showed up I had HPV virus therefore  I would require to have  annual smear tests.

Eight  months after my HPV results I was diagnosed with vaginal cancer stage 4b in April 2023. I've had chemo, 2023 and currently having immunotherapy. I'm doing ok for now.

Just thought I would share my story 

  • Welcome to the forum,  Archied9 and thank you for sharing your story with us.

    Your openness about your experience is not only appreciated but also adds valuable insights to our community, which may resonate with many others here, providing a sense of understanding and support.

    If you feel comfortable, we'd love to hear more about your journey or any advice you might have for others going through similar experiences.

    Thank you again and all the best,

    Renata, Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Offline in reply to Moderator Renata

    Good Morning, Personally for me  I just try to keep busy as being busy is a distraction and stops me being fixated on my illness. which is vaginal cancer stage 4b. 

    I lack concentration and memory is not as it was and am very tired  since having chemotherapy. I am currently on  immunotherapy  therefore I will  probably retire from my wor k in admin. I'm actually of retirement age anyway  and have thoroughly enjoyed being off work, been working for 50 years now. 

    I couldn't get through this  without the support from my family but I know not everyone has someone,  so If there's a Maggie's centre near you it will be a great comfort and help especially if your stru ggling  physically and/or mentally. They have services you can access  in the  centre and advisors  in almost every field. When I'm low mood I go and before I sit down there's someone there to chat to, and free tea coffee and biscuits! I always feel comforted when I leave. Alternatively you can sit and read quietly,  it's your choice.

    I would really like to hear from anyone who has/ had  vaginal cancer, I'm interested in knowing how this progresses, basically what to expect. I am aware this is a rare type of cancer but if anyone knows symptoms of what I should be prepared for or can advise   I'd be very grateful. 

    I would love to hear from anyone 

  • Offline

    How long will I be having immunotherapy 

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.