By Ruben Lopez | Communications Coordinator
Tatiana, WINGS’ lead nurse on the Southern Coast region, noticed that the patient’s hands were trembling as she revealed the results. The cervical screening (VIA: visual inspection with acetic acid) showed that Carla had precancerous lesions on her cervix. The word “precancerous” scared her a lot. She had never undergone any test out of fear because her mother had died of cancer.
Carla’s husband was there and hugged her as they listened to the results. Tatiana explained that they could treat the lesions right there. “The procedure is simple,” Tatiana said with a smile. “It involves applying heat to those abnormalities to destroy them. It’s quick, safe, and you can resume your activities almost immediately.”
The couple had many questions. Tatiana answered each one with warmth and patience. Carla had had negative experiences in the past and found it hard to trust healthcare workers. But our nurse’s attitude made her feel safe.
“If they had treated me like this at the hospital when my delivery got complicated, everything would be different,” Carla said through tears. “Today I wouldn’t feel so nervous. But you give me a lot of confidence, and I appreciate it.”
Upon leaving the treatment, Carla said she would refer other patients. She would even seek to organize a jornada (clinic day) of screenings with members of her community. Our nurses provided her with their contact information so she could get in touch and we could offer this essential service to members of her community.
According to the Guatemalan Observatorio de Salud Reproductiva (Reproductive Health Observatory), cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in Guatemala and has the highest mortality rate. Prevention is essential to save the lives of thousands of patients who, like Carla, have suffered from a system that limits their right to access dignified treatment.
We are grateful to be able to provide this life-saving screening and count on donations from supporters like you to be able to continue our work.
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