My Story

I was diagnosed with cervical cancer at the age of 28 after a long over due Pap smear. I had my first test done at the age of 18. My second at the age of 27. Why i waited so long, i don't really know? It's not something I even thought about. I didn't realise how important they were. In my early 20's I was too worried about my social and personal life, regular health check ups or having children were not on my mind. I didn't feel sick, so how could something be wrong? Something was wrong, my test showed up abnormal cells, I knew that wasn't good but thought that it would be easy to fix. After having the cells removed I felt that the worst was behind me. I was wrong, it was only the start. I was called back the week after and told that the doctor wanted to see me.

18 August 2006 was the day I was told I had cancer. After hearing the word "cancer" I seemed to shut off to any other information the doctor told me. It was like his mouth was moving but i couldn't hear what he was saying. This was frustrating to my family as they had questions about that appointment I couldn't answer. All I could think at the time was "I can't believe I have cancer". Looking back it might have been better to take someone in with me. Telling my parents was very hard as I hadn't told them anything about the abnormal cells as i didn't want to worry them. The day i found out my sister left work straight away to come over to see me. My parents not far behind. It was very hard to believe this was happening as I did not show any signs of being sick. Within weeks of finding out i had cervical cancer I had a radical hysterectomy. I didn't have to have radiotherapy as they felt the cancer was all removed. My mum cried when they told us this.

During the whole process of learning I had cancer, all the appointments, having to go through the operation and physically healing, having a child of my own seemed to be one of the topics that always came up. Before the hysterectomy the doctors gave me the option to have a child first. Who knows how long it would have taken to fall pregnant? I wasn't married either. That was very important to me before having children. I also didn't feel it would have been fair to have a child only to then leave it without a mother if my tumour had grown, the cancer had spread and I would not have survived. It took many years and tears to come to terms with the fact I wouldn't be able to experience the miracle that is child birth. Why dwell on something you can't change? I no longer have the feeling like something is missing.

This story is not all one of sadness.

Within six months of my hysterectomy I focused on a different career path in helping others within our community and made personal changes in my life. I wanted to be happy and enjoy my life. I had been given a second chance. It knew it wouldn't be easy. After the pain and loss I felt after the hysterectomy, losing a part of me, part of my womanhood, I knew I could handle anything. There was no looking back.

I found love!

My partner and his son, who I call my son, are a blessing to me. They are my world. Right from the beginning of our relationship he has been by my side, supporting me through check ups, health issues as a result of the hysterectomy and providing me with love and support. I have two dogs who are my fur babies. Indiana and Dexter. My older dog Indiana came into my life four years ago and helped me to start healing emotionally

My family are, and have always been, a huge support to me throughout my journey. It would not have been possible without them. I have two goddaughters, Chynna and Sophia. Sophia is also my niece and i adore her. I have 2 sponsor children in sri lanka and there are many children within my family and extended family. I am not short of children in my life to spoil and love!

My friends also have listened to me when I have needed them and have supported me. They have encouraged me to be my best. They have always made me laugh and smile. For that I am forever grateful.

Throughout my cancer journey I have learnt to stop thinking of all the things I don't have, I cherish what I do have..

Thank you

Lisa Martins