Following a major operation in September to remove my left ovary, a cyst, my appendix and litres of mucinous jelly from my abdomen, in November I received the horrible news that I definitely had cancer. We didn’t know which cancer, whether it was mucinous ovarian cancer or pseudomyxoma peritonei (or PMP). I was told we could wait several months for a final diagnosis.
I left the hospital that day completely broken and everything was thrown into uncertainty. I’m 30 and had so many significant life plans for the next few years. My finacé and I were meant to be getting married in April 2022 with close family and friends in Scotland. But I wasn’t sure how we could proceed with so much uncertainty ahead of us.
So in mid-November we made the decision after 10 years together, that all we wanted was to be married and we would elope. Our families were incredibly supportive and everyone agreed it was the right thing to do. Our wedding venue and suppliers were fantastic at changing dates and getting everything sorted for us in the circumstances. We were to be married on December 28th.
Planning a wedding in six weeks was the best distraction from cancer. There was lots of anxiety in the build up to our day with omicron, ensuring I was well enough and some worrying scan results. But love conquered and we had the most incredible wedding day just the two of us and our dog as our honoury ring bearer.
We were married at Crear in the west highlands in an outdoor ceremony on the beach with the sun shining on us. It was so perfect I couldn’t quite believe it. It was the best decision we made. Cancer has taken away so many things in my life but it wasn’t going to take away our love and our commitment to each other.
At the end of January, I was seen at the Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital and the diagnosis of pseudomyxoma peritonei was confirmed, except mine was even rarer coming a dermoid cyst on my ovary rather than the more typical appendix. I was told I would need urgent fertility treatment and CRS/HIPEC in the summer.
So, I would say don’t let cancer allow waiting and delaying to become a habit. Live your dreams, take some risks, enjoy the present and don’t hold back on love.
In case you missed it...
An ultrasound showed cystic masses in both ovaries
My initial symptom was a tiny pain (feel like pins and needles) from my lower abdomen, it only last a couple of seconds, it came and went. I was a healthy, active mum filled with energy and a busy lifestyle.
Jennifer tells us about Jim’s diagnosis
Jim's surgeon's secretary (for his appendectomy) called him and told him they needed to make another appointment because they "had found something". Thank G-d I decided to go to that appointment! The surgeon came in and told Jim, "You have appendix cancer and I don't...
Being sick
The last year and a half has been a profound and unmooring experience, and one I turn over in my mind with gratitude, disbelief, and amazement.
It is understandable to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what to do after a diagnosis of pseudomyxoma peritonei. However, life goes on. You certainly shouldn’t wait and delay seeking treatment as your condition may worsen and reduce the chances of a successful outcome. It is important to consult with a specialist in treating PMP and follow their recommendations for treatment and care. An interdisciplinary approach, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, may be necessary to effectively manage PMP. Keeping a positive attitude, staying informed about the condition, and seeking support from loved ones and healthcare providers can help in dealing with the diagnosis and undergoing treatment.