More than a promise
By Sirena Martin

I am an ordinary young lady that just so happened to get diagnosed with cervical cancer. I really didn’t have any symptoms at first. I remember going on Facebook and reading a family member’s post; “I don’t normally put my personal business on here but…” As I read on, I learned that the doctor had found some cancerous cells and had to perform a procedure to take care of it immediately.

She was saying that it would have been a worse scenario if she hadn’t received her yearly Pap smear screening. I told myself that I, too, must schedule my annual screening before the year was out. Thus started the emotional roller coaster of being diagnosed with cervical cancer. The first symptom came when I went for my exam and was bleeding (bright red) at the time, which was not normal for me. The doctor ordered a series of tests that led to a second Pap smear, which I bled through as well. I still wasn’t alarmed because I had always been healthy with no real medical problems.

When the results came in, the doctor was very supportive but told me they found CANCER. He said he would look after me as if I were his own daughter and therefore was sending me to see Matt McDonald, MD, a gynecologic oncologist. I felt so many emotions inside but I kept a smile on my face to stay strong and hold it all in.

My course of treatment was very aggressive. They scheduled surgery to remove my ovaries. Once I had healed, they set up radiation treatments five days a week, along with one day of chemo per week as well.

The treatments were not as horrible as I expected, thanks to new medications to subside the side effects. The staff really made my journey smooth and helped limit my sick days. Fatigue was a major factor and I really had to take it slow. Even so, my approach was to stay positive and happy no matter what. You don’t have to give into cancer; never let it steal your joy.

I had always been known for my smile and laughter, and something as simple as this was taken from me after my surgery – for weeks all I could do was grunt lightly, as the pain made it uncomfortable to laugh. The road was tough, but I made up my mind that I didn’t want to act like a person who had cancer. With that attitude, the fight is only over when you stop fighting, and I am convinced we all have a chance to win the fight.

I also currently work for Novant Health and our number one job responsibility is to provide “the most remarkable patient experience in every dimension, every time.” I believe in that statement and have always come to work to do just that, but to be on the receiving end as a patient is extraordinary. I am so grateful for all the doctors, nurses, supervisors and coworkers that helped make my dream come true!

The main thing I would like to tell all of my fellow cancer patients and family and friends is that no matter what cards you are dealt in life, it’s up to you and God. Through God’s grace, mercy and His prestigious will, I am here today to tell you that cancer does have a butt and you can kick it! This notion was my bread and butter. I laughed, smiled and remained faithful in the midst of the journey. Today I am moving forward and putting cancer in my rearview.