Unearthing Fibroids-My Story…Part 2

Since sharing my last post – Unearthing Fibroids – Part 1, I took the time to process the very honest, moving responses and personal journeys that a number of women shared with me on and offline. A deep confirmation, that our experiences on so many levels although unique are not uncommon. I am proud and applaud the courage of the women who continue to support each other, bring truth, insight and hope to other women in their sphere of influence. My own faith has been strengthened and my insight widened. In my time alone with God I prayed for you. I prayed for us and will continue to do so.

I started 2019 at a New Years Eve celebration in church. I was 85% in recovery and I actually sang at this service. It was a powerful time in God’s presence. I was at this point excited about the new year after all that had taken place in 2018. I had time to rest and now wanted to work on some goals with my husband. One of them was starting a new work contract. A definite answer to prayer. I also wanted to lose some of the pounds I had gained and just adjust to a new work life balance.

At around 5 months into the year, Nearly mid way through the year, I found that at the time of the month, on more than one occasion, there was a tense sharp pain in my side. Very strange as it was not a feeling of menstrual cramps, but a lingering prodding pain that wouldn’t budge. I got in contact with the surgeon who performed the myomectomy and he said that they would proceed to carry out some reviews. I returned to the BMI hospital and had a scan and internal examination.

Some weeks later I called my GP for the results. The GP on duty who I spoke to was horrid. Her tone and manner was dismissive? I asked her about my results and she started to ask me questions that were not relevant. Eventually, as she began to read the results she said “It looks like a fibroid…or something.” Or something? This conversation was raising my stress levels and I just wanted to end this phone call. I went back to my gynaecologist and he actually said that there does not seem to be anything of concern from the scan but he would refer me to another hospital.

I then met gynaecologist number 4. Although it is positive that I was being seen, it’s possible that the process can impact emotional wellbeing. It is important to remain positive in perspective and prayer. Losing weight at this time was enjoyable. A little personal goal that motivated me to explore new ways of healthy cooking and exercise routines. Little by little I reached my target and lost two stones.

During the meeting with the new gynaecologist, he said that he could see there was a polyp in the lining of my uterus. No idea what that is, or what that means! The gynaecologist drew a picture of this polyp on a piece of paper. I cannot even remember my reaction. I think by this time, I was a little numb. He then said that he would need my consent to refer me for a hysteroscopy.

My hospital admission was booked. My husband and I felt ok. We were in God’s hands and recognised the wonderful things happening in our lives. In addition, I was writing my heart in songs and back in the studio. Settling into a new church fellowship and embracing a new chapter.

On the day of the hysteroscopy, my husband and I were welcomed by a lovely student doctor. Positively, I would not need to stay in hospital this time, although I would have to take some time of work. I met another female gynaecologist (number 5) who would carry out the procedure. She explained that the hysteroscopy would enable me to watch the procedure on the screen as the long tube they insert has a light and camera on the end.

During the procedure, she encouraged me to look at the screen. They searched my uterus for this polyp and eventually when she found it I saw this mushroom looking invader, get snipped away as the blood spilled out slightly and she removed it. As I prepared to leave the hospital her closing comments to me were “Your Womb is fine. We will send what we have removed to the lab for tests “. I was advised to go back to my GP once I get the results.

When my results came back it was December, and this medical letter was clear. No signs of cancer detected. God be praised.

After a year of having the myomectomy, I was now aware of something else, Polyps. Something in women’s health I knew nothing about and could also be worth investigating if you or any woman experience the following symptoms:

• Irregular menstruation
• Bleeding in between periods
• Infertility
• Vaginal bleeding after menopause

In all of this, I understand that there are overlaps, complexities and barriers to how promptly we can access treatment or investigation. For example, what symptoms do you have? How do you manage these symptoms? Do they interfere with daily life, work life, social life and mental health? Are you of child bearing age and are you in a relationship or not? It can be overwhelming navigating through all this. I am not trained in any medical capacity, yet I am of the view that if something can be done, doing nothing should not be an option.

Whilst in the process of completing this blog post, I heard yesterday a quote that there is purpose in our pain. Then in the very same weekend I woke up to the hear about the death of Chadwick Boseman. I understand that he was dealing with colon cancer for four years. In those years he produced amazing art, inspired a generation and left a legacy. His poise stood out and he seemed to go about his positive business with such excellence and humility.

“When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, ad could say, ‘I used everything You gave me.” – Chadwick Boseman.

What struck me is that he knew his diagnoses but chose to keep it between he, his God and the selected ones that needed to know. Every single day of his life was a gift not to be taken for granted. It’s the fruit of his life that defines him, not that dreaded disease. His life, also serves to inspire us that even when uninvited circumstances arise, this does not mean that there is no hope for us fulfilling our purpose and to live each day fully in pursuit of our God given destiny.

In all experiences, I see that the sacredness of our womanhood is embedded in the way in which we were uniquely designed by God ON purpose and FOR purpose. Even when we are confronted with health challenges.

Consider a man called Job. A family man, a business man, a praying man, a godly man. He was that guy. His life was seemingly good all round. But suddenly health issues rocked his body. His marriage broke down under the pressure. He lost his children, his business and even God was not happy with the friends who being negative, added nothing to help his situation. Job’s wife, also lost it. How can this man be sick and lose everything and still worship God? The reality of dealing with a real life issue shook their foundations.

“Teach us to number our days, That we may gain a heart of wisdom” – Psalm 90:12

I was not expecting to experience anything like this. Especially not so early on in my marriage. But I’m here and thankful. I felt convicted to do my part, to share and encourage. We are living in interesting times and I know that there may be much anxiety and frustration for many women, especially if they are dealing with gynaecological matters in the midst of a pandemic. But I pray you will not give up. My faith in Jesus Christ spurred me on, that no matter what happens there is hope and purpose to fulfil.

Once again, thank YOU for taking the time to read Two Parts of my story. Regarding my health now? I am well, thankful, joyful and encouraged! Always working to improve in all areas of my life.

Moving forward, any beneficial and credible information regarding treatment, diet, nutrition that I can share will be updated in the links. I also plan to share in a future blog some of the health prayer and declarations I’ve prayed during this time. Feel free to like, comment and share!

Stay tuned for my wedding anniversary blog post COMING SOON!! x

Photography – Event Archive

Photography – Armsmac

Hysteroscopy – NHS Website

Polyps – Gynaechoice

Part 1 – My Story

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