'We're a couple with identical cancer stories - our experience has brought us closer together'
02.12.2023 - 12:33
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
A couple who the same cancer surgery exactly a year apart say the experience has brought them closer together. Lorraine Wheeler, 61, and Jann Hadfield, 62, were both diagnosed with endometrial cancer within 12 months of one another and even had surgery on the same date one year apart.
The pair, who have been together for over 20 years, say the experience has made their relationship stronger. Thankfully, both Lorraine and Jann have now recovered from the cancer following surgery and radiotherapy.
And Lorraine says she now wants to raise awareness of the symptoms of endometrial cancer as despite being the fourth most common cancer in women, the disease is rarely discussed.
READ MORE: 'I have lived under the shadow of cancer all my life and after my mum died, I knew I had to be tested'
READ MORE: Doctors said her constant exhaustion was due to depression and A-level stress... then she could barely walk
Endometrial cancer – also known as uterine cancer – is most common in women who have experienced menopause and develops in the lining of the womb. Lorraine, a student services manager from Romsey, in Hampshire, said: “One in 36 UK females will be diagnosed with endometrial or uterine cancer - you hear about the other women's cancers but endometrial isn’t one that’s talked about a lot.
“It has been life changing for me and for Jann. You reflect on what you want going forwards and now we just want to enjoy each day and be happy.
“Because we both had the same thing, we could help each other and understand, we’re just so grateful we caught it in time. It’s bought us even closer together, we’re always looking out for each other as well - if we’re not feeling great, we’re there to pick each other up.
"I can’t believe how