KICKING CANCER!

5+Years

Laurie R. on March 6, 2014

I was Diagnosed with:

Cervical Cancer

Employment Status:

Unemployed at time of diagnosis

Gender/Age:

Female/56

Type and Description of Treatments:

I was diagnosed with Stage 3B cervical cancer, & given a 50% chance of survival. My tumor was in the wall between the cervix & vagina. Wasn't found til it broke out. I had massive external radiation, 2 internal radiation & 4 low-dose chemo treatments. I am now disabled! I have alot of physical damage to my body.

How do you feel today?

Today I am doing as good as can be expected. My biggest problem is nerve damage in both legs. After my treatments, I walked with a cane for 4.5 years. NO MORE! I have good days & bad days. I just take it one day at a time!

Since the diagnosis, what has changed in your life?

Due to some of my health issues, I cannot work! I hate that!

What is going well for you right now?

The fact that the cancer hasn't come back is amazing! I hope it never does. I can deal with the side effects of radiation, as long as the cancer doesn't come back!

What is not going well for you right now?

I wish I could go to work. I hate being home every day. It drives me nuts!

What has been the most challenging thing about having cancer?

The worst thing is the nerve damage to my legs. I can't stand or walk for a long time. It makes it hard to do alot of things.

When difficulties overwhelm you, where do you go for support?

I think of a saying I found after I was diagnosed. "Cherish Yesterday, Dream Tomorrow, Live Today!"

How have your long-term goals or life goals changed since diagnosis?

I am more health conscious! I eat healthier, try to exercise.

What is your work arrangement right now? What are your hours?

Disabled

Since the diagnosis, what has changed in your work life?

Everything!

What has helped you continue to work the most?

N/A

What advice do you have for others trying to work through treatment?

More power to you! I couldn't work through treatment if I had wanted to. I slept all the time.

How have you dealt with any side effects of treatment?

As best I can. There isn't anything I can do about the side effects. Some are worse than others.

If "today's you" could give advice to "day-of-diagnosis you," what would you say?

I would tell myself to look into healthier eating, possible supplements.