I missed my smear test because of Covid – Cancer Champion Claire Stewart talks about how her diagnosis with cervical cancer has led to her passion to raise awareness.
For busy mum of three Claire Stewart, missing out on a smear test didn’t seem the end of the world. Juggling the needs of her family and a small crafting business kept her hands full.
Claire was due to have a smear test in early 2020, but as the world braced itself for Covid, and Claire began shielding because of her asthma, she put the missed screening test out of her mind.
Claire, originally from Leeds, who now lives in Wakefield, said she had felt physically fit and well, and was more concerned about staying safe from Covid at the time.
In August 2021, she started feeling pelvic pains, experienced some bleeding, and was investigated for polycystic ovaries. Her symptoms disappeared, but returned with a vengeance the following year, when she had a series of tests including a cervical smear, an ultrasound scan and a biopsy.
“Waiting to get the results was the worst two weeks of my life. I was worried about the worst case scenario. After I’d got the children to school, I was just so devastated I spent one-and-a-half hours just crying.
“Then I checked my life insurance, looked up funeral costs and made sure everything was in order,” recalls Claire.
Finally, Claire was diagnosed with locally advanced cervical cancer and was told she would need a radical hysterectomy. She was booked into St James Hospital, Leeds, and managed to get home in time for her son’s birthday.
She has not needed to have chemotherapy or radiotherapy but has quarterly tests at Pinderfields Hospital, Wakefield.
Looking back, Claire can’t believe she had failed to prioritise her health needs and now campaigns to raise awareness.
“I feel comfortable to talk about my experience now and if just one person can learn from what I went through, then I am happy.”
During Cervical Cancer Awareness week Claire shared her story on social media which attracted attention from local and regional newspapers, and from BBC Look North. Claire’s story is also told on podcast in her interview with Jacqui Drake on our website:
“I don’t really like attention, but the fact is if I could help someone else by sharing my story. I’m more than happy to give this the attention it needs to highlight the importance of attending your smear test,” Claire added.
Claire also looked for a support group where she could go if she needed someone to talk to – someone who had been through something similar.
“My family were supportive, but I didn’t want to weigh them down,” she explained.
When she didn’t find the sort of group she was looking for, she decided to set up her own.
Crafty Creatives meet weekly at Parkside Methodist Church in Outwood every Tuesday evening where members get to try a variety of crafts including jewellery making, needle felt and decoupage.
Claire, who had a glass painting business, wanted visitors to the group to feel relaxed and comfortable, and people tend to chat more freely when they are engaged in another activity.
The group is open to anyone with a cancer diagnosis and doesn’t focus on any one cancer.
“It’s such a lovely group and the feedback I’ve had is that visitors call it their happy place and where they can enjoy some precious ‘me’ time.
“Even when someone is going through something challenging, they still come,” said Claire.
Now Claire is looking for funding to help keep the group going so she can continue to offer the entry and materials free of charge.
Claire will also be joining our group of Cancer SMART Cancer Champions helping to raise awareness and promote the uptake of screening. If you would like to know more about volunteering with us, contact us at info@yorkshirecancercommunity.co.uk or click the link on the become a cancer champion page of our website.
Symptoms of Cervical Cancer – Macmillan Cancer Support
Very early stage cervical cancer may not cause any symptoms. It is usually found and treated because of cervical screening tests.
Common symptoms include:
- heavier period than normal
- bleeding between periods
- bleeding after sex
- bleeding after the menopause
- urine infections that keep coming back
- pain in the lower tummy or back
If you get symptoms between your regular cervical screening appointments, do not wait for your next appointment. Talk to your GP or practice nurse and get the symptoms checked.