NCCC North Carolina (Chapel Hill) Chapter
Chapter Leader Aisha McClellan
Around my 32nd birthday, I knew something wasn’t right. I had been experiencing irregular bleeding and consistent back pain, and even though I’ve always been really in tune with my body, I was initially dismissed and sent home with antibiotics without any testing. That didn’t sit well with me, so I pushed for more answers and was eventually diagnosed with stage 2b cervical cancer.
At the time, I was raising my three kids on my own and didn’t have the financial stability or support system to step away from work. I went through daily radiation, weekly chemotherapy, and brachytherapy while trying to hold everything together for my family, and ultimately lost my job in the process.
Just three months after being told I was in remission, I learned my cancer had metastasized to my lungs and liver and was given as little as three months to live. I remember thinking less about cancer and more about my kids and what would happen to them. That was the moment I decided I wasn’t accepting that outcome. I found a new doctor who believed in me, and I fought hard through additional treatment.
Aisha is active on TikTok where she shares her story and uses educates others about cervical cancer prevention. See more at @aishatheadvocate.
@aishatheadvocate Nine years ago on this very day, I was told I had months to live. It completely turned my world upside down, but in the end, it really turned my world right side up. Grateful beyond measure to be here to share the space with every one of you. #cancer #cervicalcancer #story #myjourney ♬ original sound - aishatheadvocate
@aishatheadvocate Advocacy by any means necessary 😂 In all seriousness, if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s always a good idea to get it checked out. You have to be your own best advocate. ❤️ #cervicalcancer #fyp #cancer #myjourney #share ♬ original sound - aishatheadvocate
@aishatheadvocate Replying to @butterfly effect The thought of losing them, healed me ❤️ #cancer #cervicalcancer #myjourney ♬ original sound - aishatheadvocate
