‘My smear test saved my life – don’t put yours off’

‘Smear tests are uncomfortable – but they could save your life.’

That’s the message from a woman diagnosed with cervical cancer after abnormal cells were detected at a routine smear.

Chantel Lopez, 34, had no symptoms before she attended the test in May last year, and was expecting the usual letter to confirm everything was fine.

But instead she was asked to attend further tests, when a sample of cells was taken.

Chantel, who lives in Ashford, said: “Instead of the results, I found myself with an appointment with the oncology team.

“At the time I wasn’t entirely sure what that meant. When they told me it was cancer, it was a little bit scary, but I just said ‘okay, what now?’”

After discussing options with her medical team, Chantel opted for a full hysterectomy, including removal of her ovaries. The operation took place in September, and she needed a total of 10 weeks off her job in a construction company.

She said: “The surgery seemed like the best option.

“Fingers crossed that is it for me; I have to have hormone replacement therapy until I’m 50, and check-ups every six months, but it was at a very early stage so I’m lucky.

“If I hadn’t gone for that smear, it could have been a different story. Now I tell everyone to just go and get it done. I don’t think anyone enjoys it but it really could save your life.

“I was the youngest person in all the waiting rooms, but it could happen to anyone. Just make sure you make the appointment when you get the letters; don’t put it off.”

Chantel praised the teams at East Kent Hospitals who cared for her throughout.

She said: “Everyone has been really nice. They explained everything and I felt reassured.

“It’s certainly been a journey but I’m very thankful it was caught so early and had the treatment I needed.”

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month – you can find out more about the condition and symptoms to look out for at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cervical-cancer/