SKY Sports star Jo Wilson has revealed she has been diagnosed with cervical cancer.
The 37-year-old said she is currently undergoing radiotherapy and chemotherapy treatment.
Tests confirmed that the presenter had stage 3b cervical cancer and the disease had spread to two of her lymph nodes
Jo – who has been a familiar face on Sky Sports News since 2011 – spoke out during Gynaecological Cancer Awareness month to encourage other women to have their smear test.
Jo said she had kept up to date with her smear tests over the years.
But after a traumatic birth, where both Jo and her daughter caught sepsis, she delayed going for just one test.
I was at another cervical screening in June that signs of cancer were detected.
After more tests, it was confirmed the presenter has stage 3b cervical cancer and that the disease had spread to two of her lymph nodes.
Speaking about the moment she found out the devastating news, Jo said: “I cried while a lovely nurse held my hand.
“Then I cried to [my husband] Dan, and he was quite shocked because he didn’t really think it would be cancer.
“You’re desperately hoping there’s a chance it might not be.”
“I said to the doctor, ‘Am I going to die?’” admits Jo.
“‘You’re not going to die,’ he reassured me. ‘It’s very treatable, and it’s very curable.’”
Jo has urged other women to get their smear test and said: “I don’t want anyone to have to go through what I am right now.”
What are the symptoms of cervical cancer?
There are no obvious symptoms during the early stages of cervical cancer – that’s why it’s best to keep up with your smears when reminded by your GP.
However, vaginal bleeding can often be a tell-tale sign, especially if it occurs after sex, in between periods or after the menopause.
That said, abnormal bleeding is not a definite sign of the condition, just a possible indicator.
Nevertheless, it should be investigated by your GP as soon as possible.
Other warning signs include:
- pain and discomfort during sex
- unusual or unpleasant vaginal discharge
- pain in your lower back or pelvis
And if it spreads to other organs, the signs can include:
- pain in your lower back or pelvis
- severe pain in your side or back caused by your kidneys
- constipation
- peeing or pooing more than usual
- losing control of your bladder or bowels
- blood in your pee
- swelling in one or both legs
- severe vaginal bleeding
