‘I never had any pain’: Bend cancer survivor shares story for Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month
Claire Elmer
(Update: Adding video, adding interview with cancer survivor, Duke University professor)
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Every five minutes in the U.S., there’s a new diagnosis of gynecologic cancer. September is Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month — a time to shine a light on a disease which affects nearly 115,000 women in America each year.
There are five types of gynecologic cancer — ovarian, vaginal, cervical, vulvar, and endometrial — each with varying warning signs. With many symptoms presenting as common issues women frequently face, awareness and education are crucial.
A Bend woman, Cheryl Steppe, says she believed her first symptom — gradual loss of bladder control — was a normal part of aging.
“I was feeling well. I never had any pain. I was walking my dog. I was golfing, doing everything I like to do. So I think that’s why I dismissed the bladder control as part of aging, until there was discharge,” said Steppe.
After a series of tests, Steppe was diagnosed with a rare form of stage four endometrial cancer. For Steppe, though she had heard of ovarian and cervical cancers, she was unaware of endometrial cancer.
Duke University professor of gynecologic oncology Dr. Angeles Alvarez Secord says that’s a common challenge in diagnosis. Many don’t know much about the diseases or how they can present.
“These symptoms are there — they’re just quiet. And we need to do more to spread the word, regarding awareness and educating people about these symptoms to watch for,” said Dr. Secord.
Both women agree: The most important thing you can do is listen to your body. And by educating and advocating for yourself, you can help set yourself up for the most advantageous outcome.
“If you’re concerned about something with your body, seek medical care,” stressed Dr. Secord.
Steppe is hopeful that by sharing her experience, she can bring about much needed awareness.
“If I can help someone, and maybe save someone’s life, it’s well worth it,” Steppe said.
Our Way Forward — a national initiative with resources for patients and families — is helping to spread the message and educate the public.
Steppe shared Tuesday that she’s entering her fourth year of being cancer-free. She credits her positivity, loved ones, and support from both her medical team and Our Way Forward with her journey to remission.