As we celebrate Mother’s Day, we remember and honour the mothers who have touched our lives. One such story is that of Romaine Glasgow, who lost her mother, Doris, to cervical cancer in December 2023.
Romaine Doris Glasgow
Her journey poignantly reminds us of the impact of this disease and the importance of early detection and prevention.
A HEARTFELT JOURNEY
Romaine’s mother lived in Skeldon, Berbice, and when she was diagnosed, the family was caught off guard.
Romaine’s mom, Doris
After she was diagnosed, it was tough because we started to wonder because we didn’t prepare for it and to know that you have lost your father and then you are going to lose your mom.
After the diagnosis, the family took her to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where she was admitted.
They did some tests on her; they did a CT scan, and so on. When the CT scan came back, and we saw it, we were like, what are we going to do? And we said, you know what, we are not going to give up. We are going to push harder.
Despite the grim prognosis, they decided to fight. They pursued every treatment option, including radiation therapy, but the cancer had progressed too far.
She reached to a point where she wasn’t eating at all and all she wanted was a little bit of water. And then her body started to be dehydrated, she had no control over her urine. We decided that this is it and we stood there by her.
Romaine’s mother’s health deteriorated rapidly, and despite their best efforts, she passed away.
A MOTHER’S LOVE AND SACRIFICE
Romaine and her family stood by her mother’s side through it all, witnessing her pain and suffering. Despite the challenges, they remained steadfast in their love and support.
A CALL TO ACTION
Romaine’s story is a sobering reminder of the importance of preventive measures against cervical cancer. She emphasises the need for women to get the HPV vaccine, undergo regular Pap smears, and practice other preventive measures.
Seeing what my mom went through with Cervical cancer, I don’t want to go through it, and I don’t wish it for any other woman. So, I am going to take my HPV vaccine, and I encourage all women to do an early screening. Get your pap done, and get your VIA. Let we get our HPV vaccine to help prevent cervical cancer.
Romaine’s own decision to get vaccinated serves as a powerful example for women everywhere. As we celebrate Mother’s Day, let us remember the mothers who have battled cervical cancer and those who continue to fight.
