My name is Ayenyo Doreen Deborah, and I joined Lacor Hospital in 2004 as a nursing assistant. For many years, I worked without knowing that I was silently battling an unseen enemy—cancer of the cervix. It wasn’t until 2013, nearly a decade later, that my journey to awareness and healing began, thanks to a series of fortunate interventions and dedicated individuals.
The Catalyst for Change
In 2013, One of my colleagues, Aber Vivian, tirelessly encouraged me to go for the test, but I kept postponing it, saying, “I’ll go next week.” Even as weeks turned into months, Aber kept reminding me with unwavering persistence. Finally, I decided to go for the screening. I didn’t anticipate the life-changing discoveries that lay ahead.
The Shocking Diagnosis
During the screening, I was asked several questions by the examiner, including how many children I had. When I told her I had three, she mentioned finding an abnormality in my cervix that, if left untreated, could develop into cervical cancer. She explained that I needed a procedure called LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure) and promptly scheduled me for the next day.
The procedure went smoothly, and a sample was sent for further testing. When the results returned, I was referred to Dr. Odong Emintone Ayella.
When I met with Dr. Odong, he reviewed my results and calmly but firmly informed me that I had stage one cervical cancer. He asked me several questions—my age, the number of children I had—and explained that I needed to decide on a course of action quickly. While I had been living life without any symptoms, the news immediately filled me with fear. Strangely enough, it was after learning about my diagnosis that I began noticing yellowish, foul-smelling discharge.
Making the Tough Decision
I told Dr. Odong, “If it’s possible to remove the uterus, even tomorrow, let’s do it.” But he urged me to think carefully and consult my husband and family. My husband initially hesitated, but my brothers from the village urged me to act quickly, saying, “This disease is dangerous. You shouldn’t delay.”
By Wednesday, I returned to the hospital ready for surgery, and on Friday, they performed an extended total hysterectomy. During the operation, they removed not only my uterus but also the surrounding tissues to prevent the cancer from spreading. The surgery was successful, and within a few days, I was walking again and back home.
Life After Recovery
One-week post-surgery, I was strong enough to carry a 20-liter jerrycan of water on my head. Since then, I have not experienced any complications. I remain deeply grateful to Lacor Hospital and the incredible team that saved my life. If it weren’t for their initiative, support, and expertise, I could have ended up in a more advanced stage of cancer, with limited options for treatment.
I especially thank Dr. Odong, who counseled and encouraged me during such a vulnerable time,. Most of all, I owe my life to my colleague, Aber Vivian, whose persistence finally convinced me to take that first, crucial step.
A Message of Gratitude and Awareness
If I had been a housewife living in a village, unaware of my condition, I might not be here today to share this story. By the time I would have felt any symptoms, the disease could have progressed to an incurable stage. Early detection saved my life, and I encourage every woman to prioritize regular screenings. Cervical cancer is treatable, especially when caught early.
Thanks to Lacor Hospital and the people who supported me, I am alive and well today. I’m sharing my story to inspire others to overcome fear, embrace courage, and take proactive steps for their health.
