Meet Una, our OVARCOMER Extraordinaire! Una was diagnosed with stage 3C Ovarian Cancer in November 2019. After a debulking surgery and 6 rounds of chemo, finishing her last treatment on April 1, 2020, she is now in remission and OVARCOMING! Una has joined TEAM OVARCOME to show the world she Cares A Latte about Ovarian Cancer Awareness. Thank you Una!
This is her inspiring story of OVARCOMING.
Q: How did your ovarian cancer get diagnosed? What were the symptoms you experienced?
A: I got diagnosed after my surgery, going into surgery we were 50/50 that my two tumors were not cancerous. I did not have a pet scan or biopsy as my oncologist knew the tumors had to be removed and we would determine during surgery if the tumors were cancerous. My symptoms were frequent urination and feeling uncomfortable anytime I laid on my stomach. I just assumed I was bloated and that I had a UTI. Come to find out it was the tumors pushing on my bladder which is why I had the frequent urination. I had gone for my yearly pap smear and my gynecologist tested me for a UTI which came back negative, so she sent me to a urologist where I waited 6 weeks for an appointment.
I am angry at times that she did not do an ultrasound with her knowing the symptoms I was experiencing. Had she done more to diagnose my symptoms I might have been in stage 1 at that time. I have learned that we must fight to be listened to. Looking back I wish I knew more so I could’ve demanded an ultrasound. I am forever grateful to the urologist who ordered an ultrasound and then a CT scan, she saved my life.
Q: What message of hope would you like to share with a fellow survivor?
A: Fighting cancer is hard, there are lots of low and lonely days, but we are stronger than we know and we somehow make it through the hard days. Family and friends that really love you will SHOW UP for you, surround yourself with those people, those are YOUR people. Lean on them for support, help and love, they all want to help.
Q: Why is ovarian cancer awareness important? How do you plan to share the B.E.A.C.H. symptoms?
A: Most women are not aware of the B.E.A.C.H. symptoms and that there is no screening for OC. We need to do our part as survivors to share our stories so that we can help save more lives. There is not cure YET, but hopefully one day, until then spreading awareness about OC is so important as a survivor and an OVARCOMER.
Thank You Una for sharing your light! THIS is how We Ovarcome Together! 💙
September is ovarian cancer awareness month. Talk About Ovarian Cancer. Give this “Silent Disease” your STRONG VOICE! Together We Ovarcome!
September may be ovar soon, but we will continue to Talk About Ovarian Cancer – every single day. If you’d like to share your story, please reach us at info@ovarcome.org – we would love to feature you!
