IT WAS November 16, 2000 when my husband and I were told by my Gynecologist that the biopsy done October 29, 2000, on a uterine tumor (believed to be a fibroid) removed surgically via Myomectomy, came back as Leiomyosarcoma or LMS, a very rare and aggressive form of cancer. I was immediately referred to the Kuwait Cancer Control Center (KCCC) and on November 29, 2000, my whole reproductive organs were surgically removed – uterus, two ovaries and fallopian tubes, and cervix – in what is termed as Total Abdominal Hysterectomy (TAH) with Bilateral Salpingo Oophorectomy (BSO).
As expected of a high grade tumor – more than 5 cm in size and tumor morcellated, mitotic index of more than 10/10, and areas of necrosis – I had a recurrence in September 2014, 14 years after initial diagnosis. The tumor was large and was sitting on the right side of my urinary bladder. It was excised October 17, 2014 and partial omentectomy was also done. The large tumor, according to my onco-surgeon was getting its blood supply from the omentum. Biopsy identified it as low-grade LMS, with very low mitotic index.
Surveillance was per standard protocol and all throughout the regular follow up at KCCC, I have had countless CT Scans of the chest, abdomen and pelvis. MRI and PET Scan were also done, as dictated by the result of the CT scans, and lots of Chest X-ray as well as Ultrasound of my abdomen and pelvis. Findings were all non-cancer related yet I continue to be followed up but this time around only physical exam and laboratory studies (Oncology Profile) will be ordered and every two years. My last follow up visit was October 4, 2020 and my next visit will be on October 10, 2021.
It is more than a milestone having reached 20 years. It is a miracle, I should say, and pious as I am, I attribute it to God’s healing. My prayers have always been answered! And I never cease praying and because of my strong faith in God I never worry.
Long may I live so I can continue with my charities and other humanitarian endeavors!
God bless you, too, Kristine. Many thanks for the prayers. Do visit my blog and get inspired by my struggles in life successfully hurdled through God’s guidance and abundant blessings. Stay safe always.
Lovelots,
Tita Freda
God bless you mam Freda. I will include u in my prayers po ❤️ I love you and God bless u abundantly