Sally K: “I never expected cancer to be found”
Being diagnosed with ovarian cancer at an early stage can make a real difference to treatment and outcomes. Sally shares how her cancer was found by chance, and why research is key to making sure an ovarian cancer diagnosis shouldn’t be down to luck.
“I had heard of ovarian cancer, but it wasn’t something I ever imagined would apply to me. I didn’t have the symptoms people often talk about, no persistent bloating or abdominal pain, just ongoing fatigue and a run of recurring chest infections.
The cancer was found incidentally. I had a CT scan to investigate my lungs, and while they were fine, the scan showed something unexpected on my ovaries.
Being placed on the two-week cancer pathway came as a complete shock. Despite the fear, I also felt relief. Things were moving quickly, and I was being taken seriously.
I was 66 when I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, initially at stage 1C2, later downgraded to stage 1A.
I know now how significant that is. My cancer was found early, something that doesn’t happen often enough with ovarian cancer.
A close friend of mine also had ovarian cancer. Her experience was very different. She was diagnosed late, after numerous appointments where things were missed or dismissed. She died from the disease.
Having seen ovarian cancer from two different perspectives, my own and my friend’s, I truly believe research is vital and needs to be better funded."
Sally shares how her cancer was found by chance, but highlights how the early diagnosis saved her life.
Treatment and living with uncertainty
"I had my ovaries and fallopian tubes removed. I’d already had a hysterectomy when I was 50, so surgery was the main part of my treatment. I didn’t have chemotherapy, but instead I’m monitored every six months through blood tests for Inhibin A and B. I don’t have regular scans.
Before my diagnosis, I was very active. I’m retired, and I loved spending time gardening, volunteering, reading, knitting, and looking after my grandchild one day a week. I still enjoy those things, but I’ve had to slow down.
I’m very tired and currently dealing with ongoing pain in my lower left abdomen, which is worrying. It’s difficult living with that uncertainty. So, after meeting with my gynaecologist to request more monitoring, I’m now having regular CT scans. I only found out about this from joining rare cancer group.
Fatigue has changed how I live my life. I’m not volunteering at the moment, and I need to rest much more than I used to. It’s taken time to accept those limits and be kinder to myself."
A message to other women
"If there’s one thing I would want women reading my story to know is you must advocate for yourself. Research the type of cancer you have, and don’t be afraid to seek out support, whether that’s from healthcare professionals or online groups who understand what you’re going through.”
Know the symptoms. Act earlier.
Ovarian cancer doesn’t always cause obvious symptoms, and they’re often mistaken for everyday issues but knowing what to look for and checking symptoms early can make a real difference.
If something doesn’t feel right or symptoms are new, persistent or frequent, don’t ignore them.
Using Ovarian Cancer Action’s trusted symptoms information and checker can help you understand what to look out for and when to speak to your GP.
The sooner ovarian cancer is diagnosed, the greater the chance of effective treatment and survival. Knowing the symptoms could save your life.
