Why this blog?

It was the beginning of autumn 2005 when I was told I have Cervical Cancer. At barely 23 years old, with a lot of yet unfulfilled dreams and hopes left behind, the news came as a bolt from the blue and everything that followed made me see life different, become more understanding but  less patient and tolerant in the same time. 

I've been through all the possible emotions, from shock when the doctor told me I had cancer,  desperation and fear when I was told they need to remove my uterus, to anger and despise when I found out the first doctor had made a mistake on diagnosing me with cancer in the first place. 

Looking back, I realize I was somehow lucky, even though "luck" is a word I rarely use or better say, a word that doesn't define me.  After new PAP smear and HPV testing, colposcopy and echography done early December, the outcome was different than what I was told before: Class II PAP smear (atypical cells).  

Mid-December brought me a Laser Vaporization conisation (use of laser to destroy cervical tissue), a few weeks of recovery, a long period of fear and 6-months PAP smears and HPV tests for the following 3 years. January 2008 I started the Gardasil vaccination.

The reason why I started this blog is simple: even though I was spared from this terrible disease, Cervical Cancer did however influence my life. From early September to mid-December, I did have my share of despair and anxiety, anger and disbelief...I was all alone and I hope that you, beautiful WOMAN that reads my blog in search of information and some kind of "comfort" will not be as alone as I was.                                                                                                

                                                                                                                                  

                                                                                                                                          Anna