Jacqueline

I am a 6 year survivor of cervical cancer and am 42 years old. At age 36, I was diagnosed with stage 1B adenocarcinoma of the cervix and my treatment was a radical hysterectomy. I recovered successfully but it was a long process physically and emotionally. I tried to return to work after 3 months recuperation but I could not keep up with my job and help others as a social worker. I was too fragile myself. Since I was a social worker, I looked into all avenues of healing that I would have suggested to clients. I attended cancer support groups, young adult cancer retreats, and participated in walking, yoga, acupuncture, massage, and reiki. I also started writing poetry which was an instrumental outlet to channel grief and anger. I wrote over 30 poems which I still consider a beautiful testament to my recovery experience. To dispel the myth that cervical cancer only happens to women who have neglected their own medical care...I am not that example. I always had yearly pap exams, exercised, took care of my health and have been a strict vegetarian for decades. I accept, today, that cancer came into my life and stole my uterus and the opportunity for me to have children. I choose to see cancer as a blessing and the positive it has brought into my life. I am still connected with and advocate for cancer survivors and families. I believe I was lucky because way too many beautiful souls have died too early.