Gill's story: 'I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2017 after experiencing months of vague symptoms'

I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2017 after experiencing months of vague symptoms, which I attributed to my menopause. It was actually my cat, Humbug, who eventually prompted me to seek medical help—but that’s another story!

After my radical surgery, I was told that I had ovarian cancer, but that I should consider myself lucky that it had been caught in the early stages and I didn’t need chemo.

I just heard the word ‘cancer’, and it felt as though my whole life had stopped in its tracks.

My lovely Mum had been diagnosed with ovarian cancer four years earlier, and just twelve weeks after my diagnosis, she passed away. I suddenly felt as though I’d been thrown into a huge storm; I was grappling with my own diagnosis, dealing with the loss of my wonderful Mum, and also wondering if I would be able to return to my physically demanding job after such major surgery.

I didn’t feel able to talk to my husband and family about my emotions because I didn’t want to upset or worry them. I felt completely isolated and helpless, and as though I’d completely lost my identity as a competent wife and mother.

I eventually decided to ring the Macmillan helpline, and it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I was able to talk honestly about my fears without the worry of upsetting my family. I was given advice about my return to work, offered some counselling, and also signposted to two helplines for ovarian cancer: Ovacome and Target Ovarian Cancer.

Through these helplines and subsequent support groups, I learned how I could improve my life through diet, exercise, yoga and mindfulness, and it felt as though I regained some control over my life.

When I was diagnosed with skin cancer in 2024, I didn’t hesitate to contact the Macmillan helpline again, because I now know how much practical and emotional support they provide. Deciding to ring them after my first diagnosis was a life-changing moment, and I will be forever grateful.