Hearing the words “You have Cancer” changes an individual.
What comes next is one of the greatest battles that any one human being, can take on. Often times those individuals afflicted by the disease feel alone. But with family, loved ones and medical care professionals by their side, they can move forward and overcome.
At 37 years old, Paloma learned she had Cervical Cancer. A year later and Cancer Free, she is sharing her story of struggle, diagnosis, treatment, and appreciation for a second chance at life.
“My story begins when I started experiencing certain problems, including abnormal bleeding and hemorrhaging in the uterus, cervix area of my body. I went to the hospital and found myself in a difficult situation. As an individual with no insurance, not qualified for Medicaid, it became difficult to continue looking for answers and medical help. So I kept putting it to the side and hoping my problem would pass.
“Months went by and my bleeding would not stop. I returned to the hospital, and they recommend that I seek assistance from the Maverick County Hospital District Breast and Cervical Cancer Services Program.
“This Program was God sent. I went through the BCCS Program and was able to receive the medical assistance needed to find out what was going on with my body,” said Paloma. “ It is then when I was diagnosed with Cervical Cancer. The medical doctors advised me that they were going to have to perform a procedure to get rid of the problem.
“I returned to the MCHD where I was met with open arms by individuals at the BCCS Program, including Eligibility Counselor Gabriela Arguello, who has not left my side since the day I walked in through those doors.
“I am so grateful for her compassion and assistance. I honestly don’t know where I would be at this time without the help of the Maverick County Hospital District BCCS Program and Medical Financial Assistance Program,” added Paloma.
Paloma went into surgery and her cancer was removed.
“Gaby never left my side and continued pushing to assure that the medical assistance I needed was available. I thank her and the MCHD from the bottom of my heart.
“I am Cancer free at this time and I truly understand the importance of listening to your body. I urge you to get your checkups. Don’t wait. Don’t put it to the side. Don’t wait to face consequences that could be worse for you.
“We often see this in other people but never imagine that we will be going through it. I am just so grateful that people like Luiza Garza, Gabriela Arguello and everyone who works at the MCHD BCCS Program and MFAP are committed to help the community when they need medical care. It’s because of them that I can sit here and tell you my story.”
