KMM, Myanmar

I am a lawyer and a widow who was the breadwinner of my family, consisting of two children. I began experiencing profuse, watery vaginal discharge off and on for about six months. I knew it wasn't normal and that I should seek medical advice, but I was always somehow occupied with my busy work schedule. One day, when the discharge was heavier, I decided to see a gynecologist who reviewed my history and performed a thorough examination. She calmly explained to me that I was diagnosed with stage 2A cervical cancer.

I immediately broke down in tears after hearing my diagnosis. I was super worried about my son, who was a high school senior and preparing for a critical college entrance exam. I couldn't imagine my children's future without me back then.

When I arrived home from the clinic, my son and daughter both encouraged me to get the surgery done as soon as possible without worrying about them, and that was the moment I decided to continue my journey.

I also fully believed and trusted my Gynaecologist, and her kind words and advice helped me a lot throughout my journey as well.

In the same year 2000, I had my reproductive organs removed by surgery and was later followed by radiotherapy as advised by my gyanaecologist who mentioned that which would be the best option for me. The overall treatment went uneventful and successful.

I highly recommend every woman to have regular cervical cancer screenings. I was not aware that I needed to undergo regular screening. Definitely, good compliance with the Gynaecologist's advice is best, and follow their instructions strictly. Early detection and early treatment are the best option for every woman.

"Remember me, Doctor?I am the one who begged you to help me live another five years back in 2000.

So grateful to meet you again in good health 25 years later!

Thank you always for saving my life!"

This story was published with the consent of Shwe Young Hnin Si Cancer Foundation, Myanmar.