Akinyi's Story

My Testimony: From Fear to Faith in My Battle with Cervical Cancer

In November last year (2024), I walked into the hospital for what I thought would be a simple IUCD insertion. But God had other plans for that day. During the procedure, the nurse paused and told me she had found a mass on my cervix. She stopped immediately and advised me to see a gynaecologist for further tests, possibly even a biopsy.

I left that hospital with my heart pounding, but I knew I had to act. After researching the best gynaecologist in town, I went to a different facility. The doctor examined me and took samples for lab work. Then came the waiting—two long weeks that felt like an eternity.

On January 4th, 2025, while at work, I received a text from my doctor: “Please come to the hospital for your review.” My heart sank. I picked up my best friend on the way, knowing I might need her strength.

After a long discussion, the doctor finally said the words I never imagined hearing: “You have grade 2 cervical cancer.” I froze. My mind went blank. How could this be happening to me?

He urged me not to waste time and recommended a PET scan. I sought second and third opinions before traveling to the capital city, as my town didn’t have the facility. The PET scan results were even more devastating—stage 3C cervical cancer.

I thought about my children, my family, my 34 years of life, and I whispered to myself, “I’m as good as dead.” Sharing the news with my siblings and closest friends only deepened my depression.

I took sick leave from work to focus on treatment. When I told my boss, she became a pillar of strength. She prayed with me, reminded me that God was in control, and lifted me out of the pit of despair. From that moment, I decided I would face this battle with courage, not fear.

I went through 5 cycles of chemotherapy, 25 sessions of radiotherapy, and 3 sessions of brachytherapy. It was the toughest season of my life—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. But I found comfort in the Lord, and my family’s unwavering support kept me going.

Two months later, I was discharged. Today, I am doing fairly well and awaiting my follow-up PET scan. I don’t know what the results will say, but I know this: I am alive, I am stronger, and I am walking in faith.

If you are reading this and facing your own battle, please know—there is hope. Cancer is not the end. With faith, support, and determination, you can fight and you can survive.

🌟 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

🧪 How was the final diagnosis confirmed?
After getting multiple opinions, I traveled to the capital city for a PET scan, which revealed stage 3C cervical cancer.

💔 How did you cope emotionally?
I initially fell into depression, but my boss’s prayers and support reminded me that God was in control, helping me regain strength.

💉 What treatments did you undergo?
I went through chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and brachytherapy—a tough journey, but I leaned on faith and family.

🙏 What role did faith play in your recovery?
Faith became my anchor. I found comfort in the Lord, and the encouragement from loved ones gave me the courage to fight.

🌱 How are you doing now?
I was discharged two months later and am currently doing fairly well, awaiting my follow-up PET scan with hope.

💬 What advice would you give someone newly diagnosed?
Don’t panic. Seek medical opinions, surround yourself with supportive people, and hold on to faith. You are stronger than you think.

Akinyi
Kisumu City, KE