Janelle's Story

Hi. My name is Janelle Madigan and I am a cervical cancer survivor.
 
I took a pap test every two years during my adult life but was one of the unlucky few who still suffered a rare form of cervical cancer that developed while I was pregnant with my second child.
 
In 2009 at the age of 31, I was diagnosed with an early stage cervical cancer just two days after the birth of my son Ethan. Ethan is now 16 months old and I have a 4 year old daughter Keirra. My family and I were initially shattered by the news. My husband and I both stopped working so we could get through this together.
 
Six weeks after Ethan was born I commenced chemo-radiation treatment, followed by brachytherapy. It broke my heart to have to stop breastfeeding my son to receive treatment. After receiving this treatment I could no longer have any more children. Many other women diagnosed with cervical cancer have not been so blessed as to have had children prior to the diagnosis.
 
The medical team thought the treatment had worked but early this year I was re-diagnosed with 'medically incurable' metastatic recurrent cervical cancer. I undertook a radical hysterectomy to remove cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. Traces of cancer remained on major organs and all the medical team could offer was chemotherapy or clinical trials, all which promised little chance of success.
 
Since then I have chosen my own path to healing, embracing holistic natural treatments of the mind, body and soul. I have been to the Gawler foundations' 10 day residential, mastered the art of meditation, embraced a vegan diet and I cherish each and every day. I have just completed the Breuss 42 day diet, comprising of small daily quantities of vegetable juice and herbal teas. It was a huge sacrifice reducing me to 47kg of skin and bone, but my life is worth it.
 
My next cancer scan is in September. My previous scans revealed that the cancer had not spread but also had not shrunk. I have expectations of a complete recovery very soon. Remember - never never never give up!
 
Despite the rollercoaster ride of the past 18 months and the uncertainty that lies ahead, my life is great! I have two beautiful children, a loving husband, family and friends who adore me and I am finally living the life I have always wanted, embracing and cherishing each and every day.
 
This is my story.
 
Remember to live with passion and enjoy every precious moment - and most importantly: Never Never Never Give Up!!!!
 
Janelle xox