Let’s be brave and sensible together!

Today a letter came. A familiar letter that made me shiver but I knew I’d never ignore it again like I did the last time it arrived.

You see in 2011 after suffering from period like pains constantly, everyday and night I decided to go and get checked out.

I’d ignored my smear test letter. I was busy, didn’t have time to go with a newborn, and then I’d become pregnant right away and had to wait until after Oz was born. (A smear test is a cervical screening test. It’s is a method of detecting abnormal cells on the cervix. you can read more about the test and what it tests for here.)

When Oz was born, I still didn’t go and I started to feel really unwell quite quickly.  

A newborn and a 12 month old – time is short. But then I discovered very quickly that life is short too.

After numerous investigations two small tumours were discovered and I had them removed. 

They tested benign – I was incredibly lucky. My recovery took several weeks and I was soon feeling so much better. 

I promised myself I’d never- ever ignore the letter again. 

This afternoon I booked myself an appointment, and I sorted out childcare to go and have my test done.

Yes a Smear test is inconvenient, it’s unpleasant, and it’s rather embarrassing, but my lovelies –  it saves lives. It could save my life. It could save yours.

Ladies. If you’ve ignored your smear test letter – please, please go book in now. Let’s be brave and sensible together.