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

–

Welcome to my first full page product review on the SoundFreedomBlog! Although this year has been challenging, it has definitely highlighted the resourcefulness, resilience and determination of many.

In the past couple of months, these were some of the items I purchased from black owned businesses. I think they are fab, wanted to spread the lurrve and highlight these to the readers of this blog. Enjoy!

Afrisocks

I purchased two pairs of these beautiful colourful socks from Afrisocks.

“Bringing Africa’s colourful prints to your sock draw. Designed in Ghana. Made with love.”

Soft and comfortable, they definitely bring colour and vibrancy to your draws and your outfit. This item speaks of boldness and an identity that stands out as a unique brand. If you want to step out with style, these are the socks for you!

Those who understand the cultural uniqueness and history of these designs, will in my view appreciate this trendy and fashionable sockwear range. I definitely do!

Sunmo Plantain Crisps

“Sunmo means to bring people together.”

Are you in the plan-tin or plan-tayne camp lol? Whichever way you pronounce it, plantain crisps are available in a quite a few different brands and Sunmo is definitely a tasty option. I first heard about the brand watching an interview, where the founder of the company; Nigerian entrepreneur Vivi Diamonds, discussed the journey of building the business.

Her journey is inspiring. From registering the company in 2017, she went on to sell her SUNMO plaintain crisps at food stalls. Due to demand and popularity, she received an investment to develop the brand and the packaging. Her business is growing and stockists range from Selfridges, Amazon, Cafe Nero and Holland & Barratt. I ordered my box from Amazon and my favourite from the four flavours is smoked chilli and naturally sweet! If you love snacks and want to support a growing black owned business, why not try Sunmo snacks.

Shea Moisture with Mankua honey & Mafura Oil

“Sofi Tucker started selling Shea Nuts at the village market in Bonthe, Sierra Leone in 1912. By age 19, the widowed mother of four was selling Shea Butter, African Black Soap and her homemade hair and skin preparations all over the countryside. Sofi Tucker was our Grandmother and SheaMoisture is her legacy.“

Over the years, I have tried a number of different shampoos that can provide moisture, detangling and nutritional benefits for my natural hair. I recall some years ago when a hair dresser was washing my hair, there was this sweet aroma I could smell and when I asked her for the name of it she introduced me to Shea Moisture. That particular shampoo was enriched with Jamaican black castor oil and I used it religiously. Recently, I fancied a change so I looked through their range for another product that could provide hydration for my hair.

I ordered from the Mankua Honey and Mafura Oil range and I am a satisfied customer.

The smell and the bounce in my curls is pleasing. I am not a fan of conditioners that you have to rinse out, so I am always on the hunt for a good leave-in conditioner. Mankua honey is known for its healing properties and mafura oil for its abilty to nourish dull hair.

I have added these sulfate free products to my hair care routine as I am satisfied with the way my hair and scalp feels after using them!

Cocoa Girl Magazine

“The UK’s first Black Girls’ magazine. Cocoa Girl Magazine is filled with inspiring and empowering content for young Black Girls aged 7-14 years old.”

To talk about an issue is good, but to positively address an issue to me is even better. Serlina Boyd did just that. Her 6 year old daughter was experiencing difficulties at school because of her skin colour, so to empower her daughter and black girls around the world, she designed and published Cocoa Girl magazine. A magazine that celebrates the beauty, culture and diversity of God given shades of brown skin. Rather than wait for others to bring the change (could be waiting a while), Serlina created the change she wants to see NOW.

I purchased the magazine and page after page was filled with positive, affirming, inspiring content. The magazine is bright, bold and interactive. The content also stimulates thinking and encourages healthy eating, good hair care routines, colouring in and writing. The tone is upbeat and although this is a children’s magazine, there are loving references to different generations. For example, learning how to bake “Grandma’s Banana Cake”, learning about the life of Mary Seacole and current millennial influencers who are building careers in writing, journalism, fashion and media. Issue 1, was highly engaging and well worth the purchase. Look out for Issue 2 and would love to hear your feedback.

NubianRockChick

“Art is therapeutic and relaxing and I truly enjoy it.” – Cassie Manning aka NubianRockChick

I tried to remember how I first became acquainted with the work of this artist. What I can remember is that whenever her artwork would show up on my instagram feed, I could relate to this artwork which highlighted the multifaceted aspects of our lives as women. This is an artist who creates, understands and motivates us through her art. I was in the process of writing a blog and when I asked NRC if I could feature her artwork in my blog, she permitted me to do so, for which I am still so thankful ( You can read that blog here: Reflect and CHILL Featured Post).

She not only has a social media presence, but has translated her art into a number of items that you can purchase from her online store. As I’m partial to a bit of writing, I purchased the notepad to add to my stationary collection.

An chic A5 notepad with flavour, as each leaf has the trendy afro haired sista sitting at the corner of the page. This notepad, is strong, sturdy and of good quality and the packaging for postage was equally as durable and proficient. Check out her beautiful items on her online store!

Armsmac Designs

“A creative company which employs art as a visual communication tool. The company prides itself in its ability to provide clients with unique works of art. ARMSMAC does this by transforming ordinary ideas into timeless and sophisticated visual works.“

No matter how many artists there are in the world, every artist provides a powerful, unique message through their work. I have learned this even more having been acquainted with the visual art created by Armsmac designs. To know the artist, is to also know and understand the passion, the time it takes to intricately complete each work and the vision for why that art was created. I love this design so I opted to purchase this on a mug, mask and t-shirt.

Armsmac art encompasses many different styles of contemporary fine art and genres which aim to interpret and portray socio-economic, familial, political challenges and rich traditions. Not only are there original pieces of art available but they are also transferred on a number of different merchandise such as clothing, stationary, accessories and home interior decor. For art lovers everywhere, there is much to choose from, enjoy whilst you explore!

So that’s my first Black owned business Review edition! So very proud of all the businesses and the achievements that are being made. Thank you for reading and feel free to like, follow and comment about the review. Stay Blessed!

Web links:

Afrisocks

Sunmosnacks

SheaMoisture

Cocoagirl

NubianRockChick

Armsmac

“Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died” – Martha, John 11:21

These are the words of a grieving sister mourning the loss of her brother Lazarus. Crushed by bereavement, she believes that circumstances could have been different. I know Martha usually gets a bad rap in many sermons for her busy, excessive temperament; but sometimes like Martha, depending on the circumstance, our real life experiences that cause grief and pain, can cause us to respond by wondering, asking or considering, how situations could or should have been different.

Growing up, I never really had much issues that would cause me to be hospitalised. As a female, I learned from a young age that monthly menstrual cramps were perfectly normal and pretty bearable, until my teenage years. The pain was quite disabling at times until I discovered Nurofen. I still wasn’t able to side-line the bloating, backache and headaches, but at least I could keep active if absolutely necessary. As life moved on nurofen was not even enough. I sought help from GPs and they offered stronger tablet form medications but no further investigations.

“Many women are unaware they have fibroids because they don’t have any symptoms. Women who do have symptoms (around 1 in 3) may experience heavy periods or painful periods” – NHS

The world wide web is an interesting place. I’ve heard arguments for and against the idea of painful periods being “normal”. For me, I believe that an incessant, crippling pain is usually a sign that you may need more thorough exploration of how your body is functioning.

In July 2017 when I was totally hunched over unable to move, I was admitted to hospital. Two months before my white wedding and I am on a hospital bed in the corridor of an overcrowded patient ward. I was given medication and a few hours later, the doctor tells me that it looks like I had a kidney stone, but x ray showed that there was nothing of concern so it was ok to be discharged. I’m given a discharge sheet and in tiny writing at the bottom of the paper is a reference to ‘Fibroids’.

“Fibroids are common, with around 1 in 3 women developing them at some point in their life. They most often occur in women aged 30 to 50. Fibroids are thought to develop more frequently in women of African-Caribbean origin.” – NHS

Skip forward to my wedding day, a beautiful day, fabulous honeymoon, and new chapter of my life and marital journey. Not long after, a letter from the hospital I had attended for the kidney stone, was asking me to return to the hospital for a scans and review. Meanwhile, for the remainder of the year terrible monthly menstrual pain, heavy menstrual flow continued. I again went back to my local GP, more medication but no further exploration.

I attended the hospital appointments, and my Kidney’s were fine, Urethra fine, but loads of fibroids? This Doctor did not explain much but just started to speak about hysterectomy? I was slightly distressed and I just wanted to leave!

I chose to blog about this issue, with the encouragement of my husband, because, although this was my personal experience, the more I spoke about it, shared my journey with others, the more I was gaining a new understanding. I had friends who shared their own personal experiences of discovering fibroids were in their womb. Some found out because of the usual symptoms, others due to difficult pregnancies.

I discovered that July is Fibroid Awareness month in some American states. Women all over the world, sharing our stories to raise awareness, which helps to provide deeper understanding about the mysteries of the female body. As a black woman of Afro-Caribbean descent, some studies and suggestions highlight the increased frequency of fibroids developing in women of this heritage. So do these studies suggest that if we are experiencing certain symptoms, there should be further investigations made at an earlier stage with recurrent visits to the GP about this issue?

Subsequent to my hospital appointments I was referred to a gynaecologist. He told me “if your periods are manageable we won’t do anything’ and then persisted to tell me about the bureaucratic referral processes in place to address this issue. When speaking to certain medical professionals during this process, I often felt excluded and helpless. Letters were sent to me with medical jargon to explain the scans I had but I did not have medical understanding to understand the gravity of what the scans revealed. Telephone calls, further appointments, re-referrals, going around in circles with no discussion on treatment. Am I supposed to sit here as these invaders take over my body!! I recall speaking to a family nurse and she told me quite frankly, “do not allow them to leave you like this.”

Being in this situation, helped me to realise that I can not put my future in the hands of infallible human beings. I had to keep trusting God for wisdom, direction and intervention. A year later, I received a letter to see another gynaecologist – July 2018. My husband as usual was with me at this appointment. He asked us a few questions and said “Ok, lets removed them.” Oh wow. Okay. This felt like a relief and a divine answer to prayer. It was whole year and I was tired. But this felt like a well needed breakthrough.

September 2018, after celebrations in Rome for birthday and anniversary, I came home, had an assessment and was booked into have the myomectomy that week. I was admitted to the BMI Hospital and I felt such peace, my husband praying over me, the staff warm, friendly, professional and making me giggle. At this moment in my life all that mattered was addressing this issue. Everything else like work, ministry and the busy-ness of life can wait.

I woke up from the surgery heavily sedated, sore. It was pre-covid days, so no social distancing measures in place and I woke up to see my husband, family and friends around me. Thank You Lord.

These staple like stitches held my wound together, tube for blood drainage in my side, urinary catheter….well, this is different lol. After a good first night, the following day I was assisted by great nurses, very pleasant care and even physio. I can’t laugh or cough and I feel so tender. The surgeon came to see me and provided feedback on how he felt the surgery had gone. I was shown a picture of these ugly fibroid invaders that were removed and also that he had treated endometriosis. Another condition that could also explain my previous pain and heavy menstrual flow.

My recovery required me to engage in no heavy lifting, do nothing strenuous and don’t drive. The day after my operation the nurse encouraged me to engage in the physio. Physio already? Yes ma’am, one tiny step at a time. The surgeon was very surprised to hear that I was booked for physio already, as his other patients were not. All glory to God for the swift beginning of healing and being mobile again.

Once home, the walk up three flights of stairs took longer than usual. But once home and indoors I was able to get comfortable. I love to sleep on my stomach but now I have to learn to sleep on my back for three months with my legs resting on a cushion. Thank God for my hubby, my carer who would make sure I was ok in the morning, leave for work and then come home cook our dinner and do everything that needed to be done at home.

I had to take the injections that prevent blood clots daily and I chose to take paracetamol rather than nurofen if I experienced any pain. The first week after the operation, I had terrible bloating, but I was warned by the nurse that this would happen. This was alleviated once I threw up, which felt like every clip in my stomach was being ripped from the inside. Ouch! Of course, I am fully aware that every woman is different and will heal and recover differently.

I had a personal lockdown. Time to reflect. I believe this chapter of my life unfolded to provide more than just insight into my own health, but I gained something to share with my sisters….

• Any ongoing, unusual, chronic pain should never be ignored. It maybe nothing, it may be something, but why not check it out?
• All women can be affected by fibroids and endometriosis, yet studies suggest that those of African-Caribbean origin are “thought” to be more prone to developing fibroids.
• Obesity can be a key factor that is identified as causing the development of fibroids so research into nutrition and overall health and fitness is a great benefit. As with everything there are arguments for and against most things. But I became focused on getting my weight down with a method that was beneficial and enjoyable. I’ll blog about my weight loss journey soon, but for now I encourage you to stick to the most healthiest option for you!
• Fortunately, the resources and information on fibroids and endometriosis are very accessible via difference sources. We can learn objectively, whilst listening to our bodies and knowing how the information may relate to our personal circumstance.
• From the point of seeing “fibroids” written on my discharge sheet, to having the myomectomy, was a year and two months. I have no idea what the NHS waiting times are now due to covid-19? Wherever you are in the world, your access to healthcare will differ. Whether you invest in private consultation or public provisions, if you have concerns, make them known to medical professions. The cost of not addressing this issue early could offer more health issues in the long run.
• This is a deeply emotive and personal area for so many women, couples and families. I am so grateful that I had people that my husband and I could trust and who were able to respond to our situation with love, sensitivity and prayer. It’s not a right for everyone to know all the ins and outs of what is happening to you especially, if you feel you need time to process these matters in your life, that’s ok. Don t feel pressured. But don’t feel ashamed either. Your journey and your story is unique, but not uncommon.

I had a myomectomy, but there are a number of different surgeries depending on the severity of your circumstances that can and will be offered. These are not menial issues and the gravity of the impact should not be minimised. I have heard many experiences. Some women require a hysterectomy which is womb removal, some experience miscarriages, one friend had a serious dilemma after childbirth due to fibroid related issues. Wombs matter regardless what age we are! So I really believe that raising awareness early can maybe assist to recognise early symptoms and gain early intervention if necessary rather than endure discomfort and/or irreversible outcomes.

With all I have read, heard and experienced, I am happy to encourage so many with the message of hope. I understand that I was graced to have this testimony. My recovery was steady and I took the time to evaluate my whole life. I had a successful operation and my monthly pain is no where near as intense as it was before the op. My recovery was not just physical, but emotional and spiritual. 2019 was a very positive and dynamic year. Taking steps of faith, making changes and embracing a new season.

Half way through the year of 2019, I was experiencing some sharp pains in my side. I return to the gynaecologist and I find out something else! The journey continues and will be reflected in Part 2 of my story.

When Lazarus died, Martha in general terms was asking Jesus “where were you in our situation?” Jesus then demonstrated powerfully, that even when a situation seems bleak, God has an unfolding purpose that can bring hope to our souls and glory to His name! By faith, I’m still learning and growing in this truth, and the purpose in this blog is to encourage the readers, experiencing difficulties directly or indirectly that you are not alone, and that in Christ, there is a purpose in our difficulties even when we can’t see it.

Thank you for reading and feel free to Like, comment, follow and subscribe for future post alerts.

Photography by Armsmac Studios

Fibroids NHS Website

July Fibroid Awareness Month – The Fibroid Foundation

Join the conversation – Pelvic Pain support.

Photo looks and products:

Boohoo Cap from Boohoo.com

Jacket from Primark

Frill top from Primark

Mum Jeans from Tesco

iL Makiage Foundation

White heels River Island

Earrings New Look