Experiences

Claire Archer

I am 23 years old and in November 1997 was admitted to hospital with abdominal pain. I had been suffering with IBS for about eight months and it was thought that I had a twisted bowel.

After blood tests, a urine test and an ultrasound scan the surgeon decided that he would undertake a laparoscopy.

When I awoke after the operation I felt that it was all over and that I would now be on the road to recovery. That was until I was informed that a tumour had been found on my ovaries. I wasn't too worried at this stage - I felt that I was too young to have cancer, but the pathologist's report unfortunately showed that the tumour was malignant.

I had a full hysterectomy and part of my bowel was removed and I am now halfway through my chemotherapy, which we hope will destroy any cancer left in my intestines and liver. I have lost all of my hair but feel life is full of sacrifices.

All through my ordeal I have found more strength and have achieved so much more than ever before. Along with my sister, aunt and some willing police officers I raised £10,000 for cancer research. I have told my story to local newspapers and appeared on the local radio station. I truly believe that I will repeat these interviews in 10 years time to continue to give hope to others.

Next week I am attending a meeting at my local college to discuss my career and further education, something I have been putting off for years.

Most of all when I look at my six-year-old son I am truly grateful for the decision my husband and I made to have a child so early in life. I am now a believer in fate.

Nothing is certain for me anymore but everyday is precious and although it has only been three months since my operation I know I still have a long way to go.

I wanted to tell my story and help others like me to find the courage to keep on fighting, ask the doctors those daft questions, cry when you need to cry, take support from family and friends but most of all to smile and keep your faith.
Claire Archer
Essex

Linda Bratley

Approximately 18 months ago - after suffering with heavy bleeding, period-like stomach ache and irregular spotting - I decided it was time to visit my doctor. After an examination he was under the impression that I might have fibroids and referred me to a gynaecologist who I had seen for fertility treatment 19 years earlier.

The gynaecologist decided that I should undergo a D&C and a laparoscopy. During the operation they also took a biopsy to ensure that there were no abnormalities. The following day I was informed that they could see no real problems and an appointment was made for me the next week to hear the results. The results were to them satisfactory, but I was still suffering and was told that the problem could be caused by adhesions on the ovaries. It was then suggested that I have a hysterectomy and I personally felt that this was the only solution. I also asked at this time if the ovaries could be removed to prevent future problems.

Within six weeks I underwent the operation and to my horror was informed that I had ovarian cancer. The cancer had also spread to the lining of the stomach. The shock was too much to take in and I can honestly say that I thought I was going to die.

I had an appointment with an oncologist the following week to discuss chemotherapy. There then followed six months of treatment which was the worst experience I have ever had to contend with. I can now say that it was for the best, although I do still have some bad days, which I am told is only to be expected. I have regular check-ups and will continue to do so for the next five years. I rely on BACUP and OVACOME for reassurance that it does get better.

My doctor tells me that it will take time to be convinced that it was worth all the unpleasantness but one thing I am sure about is that I am very glad my instincts told me to have a hysterectomy.

Linda Bratley
Kent