Julie Makin

Julie has looked to Ovarian Cancer Action for support and information since she discovered an ovarian mass in 2010.

It all started when I noticed a lump developing on the right hand side of my stomach.

In a short time my bowel movements became so regular I became practically incontinent.  And I had to urinate at lease 10 times a night. The worst part was falling asleep at just after 6pm, which was not normal at all for me. 

My stomach started to swell and I changed from a dress size 12 to looking nine month’s pregnant.

I went to my GP who did an ultrasound and then referred me to my local hospital where they did another ultrasound. It felt like they didn’t know what to do.

I had an MRI scan at a different hospital and my oncologist told me that they had to get this 'thing' out and quick. It turns out I had a borderline stage one ovarian tumour the size of a rugby ball.  

I had a radical hysterectomy where they removed everything. I was lucky to not need chemotherapy because the tumour hadn’t burst. I am still under the hospital’s care and have six monthly check ups.

I’m so glad my oncologist knew his job inside out and took good care of me. I’m lucky to have felt the lump and to have it dealt with so quickly but I still live in fear of the cancer coming back."

Would you like to share your story of ovarian cancer to help us raise awareness? Please email Jennifer@ovarian.org.uk