I was diagnosed with cervical cancer at 29 yrs old just 4 months after having my twin boys and also mum to a 12 yr old boy. Panic set in I convinced myself I was going to die and leave my kids behind. Luckily for me I have amazing family and friends. My partner and dad attended every appt with me so between the 3 of us we retained all the info that was given to us. Apart from my initial negative (also normal) reaction I decided positive thinking was the only way to get through this ordeal. This was also confirmed by my "cancer" nurse who said positive ppl tended to have more positive outcomes in terms of their recovery. Over the next couple of weeks I met the surgeon who would carry out my hysterectomy various nurses I had an mri scan and a cone biopsy had confirmed I had stage 1b cancer. In a lot of respects I felt lucky as this was an early stage, curable cancer. Within 6 wks of diagnosis id had a radical hysterectomy and removal of lymph nodes, which were found to be cancer free after being tested. My recovery went well physically I gained strength quickly. However 6 months post op I got quite anxious the cancer would return. I was referred for counselling and diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder. Yet again the nhs professionals were amazing the counselling taught me coping mechanisms and I have now been cancer free for nearly 6 yrs. I can't thank the surgeon and nurses at Notts city enough they were amazing as has the staff at my local hospital who have carried out my check ups. This experience taught me live life in the moment do what makes you happy and treasure those you love and most importantly think positively as best as you can as it really does help. Good luck to everyone xxx
