Being Diagnosed With Cervical Cancer




Photography By:Felecia Causey
Featuring Riketa Johnson

My name is Riketa Johnson, and I was born and raised in Montgomery, Al. I have traveled and lived in many places, but Montgomery will always be my home. I have been in a relationship for over four years. 

I have been through a whole lot in my life.  In January 2014, I went to my gynecologist for my annual check up, I was sent to do blood work, and all my usual tests. A week went by when I received a call from my doctor's nurse to inform me that my pap test came back abnormal . It was very unusual so, I felt confused and did not know what to do . I knew abnormal meant something was wrong, so I asked what was my next step. The nurse told me that she could not discuss it over the phone,  but I would need to come in to speak with her as soon as possible.

I went into the doctor's office that next day and she explained to me that I would need to have a test done on my cervix. The test would help determine why my results came back abnormal since there were no STD found. I was scared, so I started doing research about reasons why you can receive  abnormal results.  I was very nervous, because I came across cervical cancer and the symptoms. I was experiencing irregular periods, which is a symptom of cervical cancer, but my doctor thought it was just low hormones. I went back for more testing, and I had to wait a week for those results to come back.

I received a phone call, telling me they had discovered cancer in my cervix. I was very devastated because it was not what I wanted to hear. My first concern was would I be able to conceive a child. I was told yes, but I would not be able to naturally give birth. I currently don't have any children, but my boyfriend and I are still trying.

I was in depression, which, caused me to have to be put on medication. I even attempted suicide, but after picking up a bible one day, it changed my life. I keep my faith in the Lord because I know He has the final say. I am thankful that I have not had to go through any type of chemotherapy. I only take medication for my pain and I have monthly doctor visits. I've been doing fine, and I'm blessed to have a man and family that stands by me. 



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