Seated in her bright and airy kitchen area in South Belfast, Sian Johnston speaks with visible relief and gratitude as she shares the news that she has been given the, “all clear” following a diagnosis of Stage One Cervical Cancer.
Sian explained that she had received “borderline” Cervical Smear test results since 2021 and had been diagnosed with HPV (Human Papillomavirus), Sian consistently attended all routine appointments and on Tuesday 20 May 2025, was diagnosed with a Stage One Cervical tumour.
“Since my diagnosis, I have been on an emotional rollercoaster, it has been incredibly stressful and my head was full of ‘what if’s’.
Facing her diagnosis with determination, Sian praised the compassion, reassurance and professionalism of staff at the Ulster Hospital’s Macmillan Cancer Unit who supported her throughout her treatment journey.
“For me, this has been a positive outcome and I did not need Chemotherapy. I will continue to be monitored, but my cancer was caught very early and there was no need for any further invasive treatment.”
Asked what her message would be to anyone who might be feeling unsure or reluctant to attend their Cervical Smear appointments, Sian said, “To go for the appointment is a bit like going to the Dentist, but it is a different part of your body. You go along, you have the test and you are taking control of your health. It can all be caught early and prevented from becoming more serious. To me it is a no brainer.”
Sian praised the staff and Nurses from the Macmillan Unit who have supported her, “Every step of the way.”
“Gynae Oncology Specialist Nurse, Fiona Rice has been fantastic. I cannot thank her or all the other Nurses and the wider medical team enough. I have had in-person calls, there is brilliant online advice for those going through treatment. Through being signposted to the services that are available, I have joined the Cancer Focus Choir for Life. It is a whole new network of people, those that have been diagnosed and those who have been impacted by cancer. It is a whole new community for me.”
Now recovering from a Hysterectomy carried out five weeks ago, Sian said she wanted to share her story to highlight the importance of attending screening appointments.
“It is so important to go to those appointments,” she said. “As 2026 gets underway, I am really looking forward to getting back to paddle boarding, being part of the Slipway Swimmers in Cushendall and the Glens Coastal Rowing Club. It has been a stressful journey. I am looking forward to enjoying life again and having a bit of fun.”
Ulster Hospital Gynae Oncology Nurse, Fiona Rice, added, “We are fortunate to participate in the Cervical Screening Programme which allows cells on the cervix to be monitored for changes from a very early stage. Early detection of cell changes on the cervix allows timely action for further investigation and treatment.
“I would recommend that anyone called for routine Cervical Screening should attend that appointment. I would also encourage everyone to be vigilant in recognising the signs and symptoms of Cervical Cancer:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding usually between periods, after or during sex or at any time after the menopause;
- Discomfort or pain during sex;
- Other symptoms may include an unpleasant smelling vaginal discharge.
“It is important to seek immediate medical assessment if you have any of the symptoms above.”