A mum was diagnosed with what she calls a “silent killer” after experiencing bloating and loss of appetite. Christina Wilson, 71, noticed her bloating when she was trying to slim down for her son’s wedding but found herself getting “heavier”.
Despite not feeling hungry, she also had small bladder leaks which she initially thought were due to her age. However, after suffering several kidney infections, Christina was taken to hospital where she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
Christina, who received her diagnosis at Walsall Manor Hospital, said: “I felt sick and shocked. I didn’t know anything about ovarian cancer it is described as the most silent cancer and women need to be educated. The next thought was for my son sitting by me as I had the diagnosis, taking this in and knowing I needed to make my youngest son’s wedding I was so frightened.”
“Now, I know why this is the hidden cancer. All women out there should never put bladder leaks and a change in their stomach size down to their age it should always be checked.”
Last week, lots of people looked up information about cancer online. This happened after Princess Kate said she has the illness, reports the Mirror.
The NHS page on cancer got 2,840 visits, which is way more than the 600 visits it got at the same time last year. Also, over the weekend, the Macmillan Cancer Support website had 100,000 visitors.
Christina, a mum from Walsall in the West Midlands, wants to help others with her story. She shared: “The scan showed I had two tumours, one on each ovary. The doctors and nurses were wonderful, and I remember thinking there was a special kindness in their nature they really put me and my family at ease.”
She also talked about going to the hospital: “My admission to hospital was a welcome relief as I was finally going to get the six and a half litres were drained from my stomach. I think everybody was jealous that I lost a stone overnight right before Christmas.”
Christina started chemotherapy, which stopped the cancer from spreading, and she had a big operation too.
Christina added: “Chemotherapy was tough but 10 days after I felt well enough to socialise. Having things to look forward to in between these sessions is so important. My hair started to fall out after the first round, but I do have to admit that choosing my new wig with my friend was fun.”
Carol Smith, a nurse at Walsall Manor Hospital, in her statement said: “Christina listened to her body and sought medical advice. This led to her undergoing extensive treatment which she has met with positivity and strength. I would like to stress the same message to women everywhere regarding the signs and symptoms of this silent disease.”
After attending her son’s wedding, Christina is now resting and taking daily chemotherapy pills. She also regularly visits the hospital for checks.
During Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month in March, she is advising older women to be aware of potential signals of ovarian cancer.
She highlighted the main symptoms of ovarian cancer to be looking out for:.
