A Wishaw woman is encouraging others to speak openly with friends about cervical screening as she bravely opened up on her own cancer journey.
Corinne's Story
Corinne McCleish, 46, is urging others not to delay their smear test after her own diagnosis with cervical cancer. She highlights how talking with friends helped encourage those around her to attend screening without hesitation.
Corinne had been working alongside her colleague and friend Erin Bartely at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde for less than a year when she was diagnosed with cervical cancer following a smear test and colposcopy.
“I will never forget the day I received the news,” said Corinne. “Because of the Covid-19 lockdown, I had to be at home when the doctor called. They advised me to have someone with me, and I knew then it wasn’t going to be good news.”
Corinne underwent treatment at The Beatson, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and brachytherapy. She said: “The treatment was difficult and had a huge impact on me and my family. They supported me every step of the way, travelling with me to appointments and caring for me afterwards. The staff at The Beatson were also incredible.
“It’s still a challenging road and I continue to receive care. But I am cancer free. If I hadn’t gone for my smear test when invited, or if I had delayed, the outcome could have been very different.
“That’s why I tell everyone: when you’re invited, go. But also talk about it. The more we speak about smear tests with our friends, the more normal it becomes, and the more likely people are to go.
“The HPV vaccine is a major step forward, but it doesn’t protect against all types of cervical cancer. Screening is still essential.”
Erin's Experience
Seeing first-hand what her friend went through had a lasting impact on Erin, who didn’t hesitate to take up her first invitation for screening at age 25.
“I was genuinely excited when my letter arrived,” said Erin. “I wanted that peace of mind. I was a little nervous because I didn’t know what to expect, but the appointment itself was straightforward and over quickly. There really is nothing to worry about.
“Talking about it with Corinne made a huge difference. It made it feel normal, not something to be worried about. I’ve been encouraging all my friends to go too.
“If you’ve been invited, please book your appointment. Don’t put it off. It could save your life, just like it did for Corinne.”
Expert Advice
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Public Health Consultant in Screening, Dr Alison Potts, said: “Talking about cervical screening with friends, family and colleagues can play a really important role in encouraging more women to attend.
“These conversations help to break down barriers, reduce anxiety and make screening feel like a normal part of looking after your health.
“We are very grateful to Corinne and Erin for sharing their story and helping to raise awareness during Cervical Screening Awareness Week.
“Cervical screening can prevent cancer or detect it early, when treatment is most effective.
“If you’ve received your invitation, please make your appointment as soon as possible. It’s quick, safe, and it could save your life.”
