A New Dawn: Victoria's Fight Against Cervical Cancer and Her Call to Action
At 63 years old, Victoria* (Name Changed for Patient privacy), a mother of one, was at a crossroad following a diagnosis of a high-risk cervical lesion after a routine Pap smear in early 2024. Following a diagnosis of HIV in 2014, she dedicated herself to managing her health as an HIV-positive woman. Her world was shaken.
Separated from her husband and with no steady income, she was not only overwhelmed by the diagnosis but the cost of treatment. As her condition worsened due to delays in management, the stress took a toll on her. Her blood pressure soared, her self-esteem went down, and the vibrant woman she once was, seemed lost.
A Lifeline of Hope
Victoria’s turning point came when a friend referred her to DREAM Centre, a Faith-Based Facility. With their support, her journey took a transformative turn. She received counseling to help her navigate the emotional toll of her diagnosis, and the program facilitated her enrollment in the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF). This critical step enabled her to undergo further testing, colposcopy, and biopsy, confirming the need for a Total Abdominal hysterectomy (TAH).
In May 2024, she successfully underwent surgery. The procedure marked a new beginning—not just for her health but also for her spirit. Today, she is recovering well, her self-esteem has been restored, and her outlook on life is brighter than ever. She’s even planning to start a small business to secure her future.
From Survivor to Advocate
Her journey didn’t stop at her recovery, and she was inspired to give back; she joined and became an active member of a support group for cervical cancer patients and survivors. She shares her story to inspire others, encourage women in her community to get screened, and reassure those with positive results that treatment is possible and effective.
She has continued to raise awareness and create demand for Cervical Cancer Screening Services among women living with HIV and continues to walk with those diagnosed in their journey to recovery.
A broader Impact
Since June 2024, Dream Centre has supported 17 women with precancerous lesions. Ten of these women have completed treatment and are on follow-up and cancer-free. The others are undergoing treatment, guided by a compassionate and determined care team.
Victoria is a testament to the power of timely intervention and the importance of accessible healthcare services. It serves as a powerful reminder that, with the right support, every woman can have the opportunity to reclaim her life, overcome significant health challenges, and thrive.