32-year-old Caron Botha, a marketing executive from Ballito, was diagnosed with cervical cancer last year. The last few months have been filled with heartbreak, hope and hard-won wisdom.
“It’s been a rollercoaster,” Caron admits, reflecting on her diagnosis of stage 3 cervical cancer. The road leading to this moment was fraught with misdiagnoses, dismissals and an endless maze of medical visits. But, through it all, she has remained tenacious.
The very beginning
Caron’s health struggles began some time before her cancer diagnosis. Unexplained pelvic pain led her through numerous consultations with doctors who often overlooked key indicators. “At one point, I was in so much pain I couldn’t function without painkillers. I went to countless doctors, and still, no one could tell me what was wrong,” she says.Her frustration grew when a pap smear in 2022 revealed abnormalities, but the urgency of follow-up care wasn’t communicated. By the time the cancer was detected in 2024, it had progressed significantly. “If someone had just told me two years ago that my cells were abnormal, things could have been different,” she says.
Fighting back
Despite these challenges, Caron refused to let the system break her. When traditional medicine failed to address her pain or provide clarity, she explored integrative approaches. She delved into dietary changes, holistic treatments and genetic testing to understand her body better. “You are what you eat, therefore you are what your body can break down and absorb,” she says. “Learning the importance of diet, understanding my genetic predispositions and working with integrative doctors has been a game-changer.”
Caron’s unwavering determination also led to a life-changing decision to preserve her fertility. With the help of a BackaBuddy fundraiser, she successfully underwent an egg retrieval process, resulting in 16 embryos. “The support from friends, family, and even strangers was overwhelming. It showed me how much love there is in the world,” she says.
Finding a community
While struggling with her diagnosis and treatment, Caron found strength in community and connection. Her running club, church community, her friends, and even local wellness spaces like Kico Life Wellness Hub became sources of solace. “The support has been incredible,” she says. “You think you’re alone, but you’re not. People are out there, ready to help if you just ask.”
Lessons for life
Caron’s experience has ignited a passion for advocacy. She urges others to prioritise their health, seek second opinions, and educate themselves about their bodies. “In my case, the doctors only kept treating my symptoms instead of finding the root causes, which happens often. You need to be your own advocate.”
Her message to others facing similar battles is clear: “Cancer is not a death sentence. Take a step back, do your research, and don’t make decisions out of fear. There’s hope, even when it feels like there isn’t.”
Caron’s journey is far from over, but her courage and determination light the way for countless others navigating their own health struggles. “If my story can help one person, it’s all worth it,” she says.
