I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer during the birth of my second son through a repeat cesarean section. Just after delivery, the surgeons noticed a tumor on my left (not found in any prenatal ultrasounds) ovary which they removed and promptly sent to pathology. Being awake during the birth and having to talk to the surgeon about their findings was difficult. The next day two obstetricians came to my room and told me that it was cancer and that I needed to follow up with an gynecological oncologist in the coming weeks.

I thought that this was preventative as they believed that the cancer was contained. Through more ultrasound and lab work, more cancer appeared on the same ovary! I had my left ovary and tube removed, right tube removed, right ovary biopsied and a pelvic wash 9 months later. The reason for the delay was my resolve to nurse my second child because I could not nurse my first son and he has multiple life-threatening food allergies, along with some other allergies.

It is nearly one year since my diagnosis and I continue to have my CA125 levels checked regularly. A full hysterectomy is imminent, which is not favorable since I am 33 and will have to take synthetic hormones. I am also participating in genetic testing in order to help family be proactive with hereditary breast, colon and ovarian cancer.

I’m looking forward to spending the summer with my boys and we will see when the next surgery happens. Hopefully the cancer will remain contained and I can limit any chance for reoccurence!