Following the Loose Women Body Stories campaign, Lisa took part in a photo shoot organised by The Sun newspaper. We caught up with her and talked to her about the shoot.
PMPS: Hey Lisa, can you tell us what inspired you to take part in the photo shoot after the Loose Women Body Stories campaign?
Lisa: I did it for a couple of reasons. It was a way for me to feel better about myself and my scars, and it was also a way to raise awareness of pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP).
PMPS: Can you tell us a bit more about the photo shoot? We’d love to know where it took place and what your experience was like. Did you enjoy it?
Lisa: It was an all expenses paid trip to London and I met other truly inspirational women. We had a lovely day, chatting about why we were all there, and of course, there’s strength in numbers! Everyone was lovely and the day was a positive experience xx
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I felt something wasn’t right in my abdomen
I went to the doctor as I could feel a swelling and, yes, the doctor could feel it too. After taking pregnancy test under the doctor’s instruction, I was sent for an ultrasound.
Sent for ultrasound for possible hernia
For well over a year, I noticed my belly steadily getting bigger though I didn’t seem to be eating any more than normal. I of course tried dieting a few times but when I didn’t lose weight I gave up pretty quickly!
You have to do research to find the right medical team that is experienced in treating PMP
I didn’t have any related symptoms before my diagnosis. I went to the urologist for some UTI treatment. The doctor (my hero) ordered a CT scan. That was the beginning of my journey. PMP is so rare and the right treatment is so important. You have to do research just to find the right medical team that is experienced in treating PMP. My wife and family, of course, were there for me.