Messages of support to a young woman living "one big nightmare" have come pouring in after she was given a devastating diagnosis.
Sarah Waters has been sharing her journey in a bid to raise awareness and urge others to attend their routine cervical screening tests. Back in 2020, Sarah's routine smear was postponed as a result of the pandemic, meaning she was unable to get one until April 2022.
After jetting off to Spain for an incredible holiday, she returned home to "urgent" referral letters from the hospital. On June 22, the 30-year-old, from Prescot, was given the heart-breaking news she had a rare type of cervical cancer called Poorly-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma that was "aggressive and fast growing".
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But in a "double whammy" of bad news, she was told she would need a full hysterectomy meaning the chances of having her own child were "taken away". After waiting to hear if she would need further treatment, Sarah was told her cancer was "more aggressive" and is now at stage 3 as she reinforces the importance of having a cervical screening.
Since the ECHO has been sharing her brave journey, to help raise awareness of the importance of smear tests, messages of support have come pouring in for the "incredible girl".
Posting on the ECHO Facebook Page, Lorraine Northey said: "Sarah keep strong and positive you have got this, smash it luv and show cancer who it’s trying to mess with, I wish your journey and recovery the best and pray it’s speedy." Cally Wagner added: "The very best of luck sweetie, will keep you in my prayers."
ECHO reader Vicky Hughes wrote: "Such a lovely lady from a gorgeous family, wishing you all the best for your treatment, thinking of you Sarah Waters", as Rachel Wilson said: "Such an incredible girl and her family, I hope she finally gets some good luck and good luck to her mum doing the charity walk."
Via the ECHO website, one user said: "Be strong good luck you can beat it", as another wrote: "Good luck Sarah and thanks for raising awareness." A third added: "Be strong good luck you can beat it."
The ECHO previously reported that Sarah's mum Susan who is watching her daughter go through "an incredibly tough time" has decided to take on an incredible challenge. She plans to walk 300,000 steps this month, as well as looking after Sarah.
Setting a target of £100, the fundraiser has already received omore than £1,600 as the family reinforce the important message of don't miss a smear test. The fundraiser can be found by clicking here.
ECHO reader Ivor Mclelland commented: "I am going through Bowel Cancer at the moment, have had 20 chemo sessions, six to go. Doctors are hoping it doesn't spread but I am trusting in the man above, he will take you through this journey to fight this. I will pray for you everyday, keep trusting and stay positive and you will get through this Sarah. God Bless."
Cervical cancer
According to the NHS, cervical cancer is a cancer that's found anywhere in the cervix and can often be prevented by attending cervical screening. Main symptoms can include:
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
- Changes to vaginal discharge
- Pain during sex
- Pain in your lower stomach, back or hip bones
More about cervical screening can be found via the NHS website here.
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