Charlotte and TenikaCharlotte's Story

“At the age of 20, my life was turned upside down as I was diagnosed with cervical cancer.  

When I was diagnosed my cancer was too advanced for laser treatment and I had to have a hysterectomy, followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy.  Since that time I have undergone two life-threatening operations and had a five months spell in the Young Oncology Unit (YOU) at The Christie in Manchester. Going through two sets of chemotherapy has made me lose my hair.  And now I am on my third set.  As a result of all these things I can’t have children.  I can’t complain though, as I’m blessed with a beautiful daughter, Tenika. 


Tenika has had to watch her Mummy go through this terrible ordeal for the past three years. I can’t do normal ‘Mummy’ things with my little girl.  I can’t walk with her to school.  I can’t play with her.  I can’t take her shopping for treats.  Most of the time I am exhausted and can’t even manage to make a cup of tea.

Young women don’t get called for smear tests until the age of 25.


If I had been screened at the age of 18 my life would be so different today.  There are many young women in the same situation as me.  I know this because they are contacting me.   The Government has to change the age ruling so that other women don’t have to face what I have to face.  I am lucky because my family is strong and supportive, but I know when I am not there my Mum and Dad, my sisters, my extended family are falling apart.

And that’s why I am fighting to change the law.
I want to make a difference. 
You can help by signing my petition and joining me at our regular events.
Do it now and together let’s pave the way for a better future."