Forever Changed

The one thing that is certain when you are first diagnosed with ovarian cancer is that you will be changed. Every type and form of cancer will change you in some way. Your life will indeed be impacted. Whether it's physical, mental, or emotional, you don't always know.

The thing about ovarian cancer is that it is one of the cancers that will most definitely impact and change you in practically every way! It's no respecter of persons either. It doesn't care about how old you are, your status, religion, or race. As a female, it will make sure your life will never be the same.

Mental change

So much is about to happen to your body before you even begin treatment. This is a cancer that affects your reproductive organs. Because most of us aren't diagnosed until stage 3 or later, our symptoms have already begun to affect our bodies in a way that determines so much for us. We immediately have to face a future with either the challenge of being able to have a child or not. And for some women, this also means the introduction to menopause.

Physical change

This is one of the cancers that will almost certainly require surgery in some form in addition to your treatment. A tumor may have to be removed, and for many, it, unfortunately, will require a hysterectomy. It may seem like this should be a simple decision if it means saving your life. Just face it and do it. It ensures you live longer.

Well, it's easier for some than others, but a transition all the same. And I assure you, it's no easy decision! How I wish it were. First of all, who wants to undergo surgery? Nobody at all. The scars themselves can be emotional for a woman. Then if you have never had a child or really wanted to have another child, having this taken from you is absolutely heartbreaking.

Emotional change

Facing the mental and physical changes will undoubtedly have you meet some emotional changes. They may be temporary, but they do come. Let me tell you from personal experience. They are very valid, and it's okay to feel how you feel. It can be so overwhelming dealing with everything happening at once. Your oncologist has given you the diagnosis. Then you hear you must have major surgery and decide on your treatment schedule.

I remember my head was spinning for a while. I was reading all the information on ovarian cancer and feeling so afraid. Was all this even going to be worth it in the end? I wasn't sure. If I have this major surgery, how will my womanhood be defined after? Yes, I hit bottom for a bit and was even depressed. I can't even tell you how much I cried! But I got through it! Thanks to my amazing family.

Change can be good

Now we are all affected differently. We don't have the exact same diagnosis or treatment, nor is every physician the same. So I can't tell you HOW you will be changed. I can only give you my story and my journey willingly.

However, change is inevitable. But allow me to share what I learned - change can be good. It allows you to learn about yourself. See life from a new perspective, and that is so amazing. It causes you to rediscover, renew, and redefine! So I am proud to say as a 2-time survivor, I am forever changed by this journey with ovarian cancer!