A few days after celebrating my 32nd birthday, I started noticing unusual symptoms like irregular bleeding and persistent back pain. Trusting my instincts, I sought medical help at my local health department. Initially, I was misdiagnosed with an infection and sent home with antibiotics. But something didn’t feel right, so I advocated for myself and persisted until I found a doctor willing to investigate further.

Eventually, I was diagnosed with stage 2b cervical cancer. The diagnosis was a shock, but I jumped into action for the sake of my three children. As a single mom, I was all they had, and the thought of not being there for them was unbearable. Over the next few months, I underwent intense treatment, including radiation, chemotherapy, and brachytherapy. The physical, emotional, and financial toll was overwhelming. There were times when I didn’t know how I’d put food on the table or keep up with the bills, but my love for my kids kept me going.

Three months after completing my treatment, my world was shattered again. A follow-up PET scan revealed that the cancer had metastasized to my lungs and liver, escalating to stage 4b. I was told I had just three “good months” left. But I refused to accept this as my fate. With the support of a new doctor who believed in me, I fought harder than ever before, undergoing six rounds of combination chemotherapy while working, raising my kids, and making lifestyle changes.

Against all odds, in August 2017, my cancer was declared gone. Today, I’m thriving and grateful for every day I have with my family.