It was 17 years ago when I was diagnosed with Cervical Dysplasia Each year as I go for my exam I can only wonder what the future holds. Being in the Military, I had my woman’s exam performed just before I left, I never knew what the results were.

Six months later as I prepared to get married, my exam came back with bad news. I was on stage three, severe dysplasia. I had no one to turn to and no one knew what was happening to me. This was a health issue that was virtually a taboo subject of the times and little was known about it or at least that is how I felt. I went through the whole process of the LEEP, colonoscopy, etc, etc, etc. The only information I could understand was, I had cancer and I needed to be treated immediately.

After a year of emotional turmoil and uncertainy, I was given the green flag. It will be 17 years since that horrible summer. My condition was so severe, the Dr. had suggested a hysterectomy Since I was getting ready to get married, they opted for laser surgery of the cervix, only to find out that my chances of conceiving would be slim to none. I proved everyone wrong, I now have 2 beautiful, brilliant and intelligent boys, but it didn’t happen without the painful reminder of my condition.

I have now learned a lot about dysplasia to where I can now provide support and knowledge about the condition to other members of my community and friends. Medical technology today is not as prehistoric as it was back then.