Cancer is a word that can shake anyone’s world. It’s not just a disease of the body, but something that changes your mind, emotions, and even how you see life. For many, the word “cancer” brings fear, confusion, and sadness. But it’s also a word that can bring courage, strength, and a new kind of clarity. When someone hears they have cancer, their life doesn’t stay the same—it turns in a direction they never expected. In this blog, I’m going to talk about cancer in a simple way, and then share how I discovered I had uterine cancer—something that completely changed my life. My goal is to help others understand and maybe even recognize early signs before it’s too late.
What is Cancer?
Cancer is a disease where the cells in the body grow out of control. Normally, our body has a system to control how cells grow and divide. But when someone has cancer, that system breaks down. The cells don’t stop growing when they should, and they may form a lump called a tumor. These tumors can be harmless (benign) or harmful (malignant). Cancer cells can also spread to other parts of the body through the blood or lymph system, which is called metastasis.
There are many types of cancer, like breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, and in my case, uterine cancer. Each type of cancer is named after the part of the body where it started. The symptoms of cancer depend on its type and stage, but they often include things like weight loss, fatigue, pain, or changes in the skin or bodily functions.
Doctors usually find cancer through tests like biopsies, scans (like CT or MRI), or blood tests. Once found, treatment can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or other newer medicines. Some people get cured, some live with it for a long time, and others may lose their battle. But early detection always gives a better chance of survival.
How I Knew I Had Uterine Cancer?
It all started with a few small changes in my body that didn’t feel normal. At first, I ignored them. I thought it was age or maybe stress. But slowly, the signs became too strong to overlook. I wish I had known earlier what these symptoms meant. Here’s my personal story broken down by the stages I experienced.
Unusual Bleeding
I had been going through menopause, and my periods had already stopped for a year. One morning, I noticed light spotting. At first, I didn’t think much of it. But the spotting came back again the next week—this time heavier, like a full period. That didn’t make sense. I was past that phase of life. Then it started happening more often, and the bleeding lasted longer. I began to feel tired, even dizzy at times. I thought maybe it was just hormonal changes or some infection, but deep down, I had a strange fear.
I finally went to a gynecologist. She did a pelvic exam and ordered an ultrasound. That test showed something unusual in the lining of my uterus. She recommended a biopsy to test for abnormal cells. I was nervous, but still not fully prepared for the result that would come next.
Constant Fatigue and Weakness
Before the diagnosis, I felt tired all the time. Not the usual tiredness from a long day, but a deep exhaustion. I would sleep for eight hours and still feel like I hadn’t rested. I had no energy to cook, clean, or even take a walk. Climbing stairs left me breathless. I blamed it on age, but it was more than that.
Even my appetite changed. I didn’t want to eat much, and I lost some weight without trying. My skin started to look dull, and I could feel that something in my body wasn’t right. People around me started asking if I was okay because I looked pale. This kind of tiredness was different, and it was my body’s way of warning me.
Pain in the Lower Abdomen
I started having a dull, dragging pain in my lower belly. It wasn’t sharp, but it was always there. Sometimes it felt like cramping, other times like a heavy pressure. It became worse during the night. I couldn’t sleep properly, and I’d toss and turn for hours.
I also had some discomfort during urination and slight pain during intercourse. It was hard to describe, but it all felt connected. I started to search online and saw that many women with uterine cancer mentioned these same things. That’s when I became truly worried and went back to the doctor for more tests.
Pelvic Ultrasound and Biopsy
The ultrasound was the first real step toward finding the cause. It showed thickening in the endometrium, which is the lining of the uterus. My doctor said that’s not normal after menopause. She suggested a biopsy, which involved collecting a small tissue sample from inside the uterus.
The procedure was uncomfortable but not painful. I waited a week for the results. Those seven days felt like a lifetime. I kept thinking maybe it was just an infection or a fibroid. But the result came back: I had endometrial (uterine) cancer. My heart sank. I had hoped for anything but that.
Processing the Diagnosis
Hearing the word “cancer” from your doctor is something you never forget. I sat in the room, holding back tears, as she explained what it meant. She told me it was caught early, which was good, but I’d still need surgery to remove the uterus—what they call a hysterectomy. I also might need follow-up treatment depending on what they find during surgery.
It felt like my world paused. I thought about my family, my life, my future. Everything changed in that moment. But after a few days, I found strength. I decided to fight it. I told myself, “This is not the end. This is the beginning of a new battle, and I will win.”
Surgery and Recovery
I had the hysterectomy two weeks after the diagnosis. The surgery was successful, and thankfully, the cancer had not spread beyond the uterus. The recovery was slow, and for the first few days, I couldn’t move much. I had help from my family and nurses.
Over time, I began to heal. There was pain, of course, and emotional ups and downs. But I kept thinking about how lucky I was to have found it early. I followed my doctor’s advice, went to every follow-up, and slowly returned to normal life. Cancer changed me—but it also made me stronger.
Final Verdict
Cancer is a scary word, but early awareness can save your life. In my case, unusual bleeding and fatigue were the first signs. I could have ignored them, but I’m so glad I listened to my body. If you’re reading this and something feels “off” inside you, don’t wait. Go to a doctor. Ask questions. Push for answers. Because the earlier you find cancer, the more chances you have to beat it. I faced uterine cancer, and with courage, treatment, and support, I came out stronger. You can too. Let’s not fear cancer—let’s fight it, together.