Meet Ella Ways: Ovarian Cancer Survivor

How did your cancer journey begin?

I had heavy periods from age 11 and ongoing pelvic pain as a teenager. At 17, a scan found a 2 cm cyst on my right ovary, but I was told it would likely resolve on its own. Over the next few years my symptoms worsened with bloating, fatigue, back pain, urinary problems, and a growing abdominal lump, yet my concerns were repeatedly dismissed as IBS.

What finally led to your diagnosis?

Fast forward to age 21 and after repeatedly returning to my GP, insisting something was seriously wrong, I was finally referred for emergency imaging. The scans revealed a large pelvic mass, and I was referred to a specialist cancer center. Surgery initially suggested the mass was benign, but pathology later confirmed a rare ovarian cancer called mucinous ovarian carcinoma (MOC).

What happened after your diagnosis?

I underwent a second major surgery to remove my remaining right ovary, right fallopian tube, appendix, ommentum and surrounding tissue while preserving my fertility as much as possible. I was diagnosed with Stage IC, Grade 2 ovarian cancer.

Why did you choose chemotherapy?

Although no visible cancer remained after surgery, my doctors recommended chemotherapy due the the tumour being burst in my abdomin, they wanted to make sure there would be no risk of recurrence. After discussing the risks and benefits, I chose to complete six rounds of carboplatin and paclitaxel.

How did cancer affect your fertility?

Before chemotherapy I underwent fertility preservation treatment using Zoladex to temporarily suppress ovarian function and help protect my remaining ovary. Fertility became one of the most difficult parts of my journey as I was put in a position where I had to consider my fertility  as well as undergo cancer treatment at the age of 22 because there were no guarantees about my future ability to have children.

What was the most difficult part emotionally?

During treatment I stayed in survival mode and rarely showed my true emotions and just thought “get through each round and life will go back to normla” but also because I didnt want to really show the true horror of what I was going through to everyone else around me. It wasn't until treatment ended that everything truly hit me. I had to adjust to a new body, ongoing side effects, and a completely different life because nothing went back to ‘normal’.

How has life changed since treatment?

I now live with chronic fatigue, chronic pain, regular scans, blood tests, and follow-up appointments. Remission doesn't mean cancer disappears from your life— it simply becomes a different and new way of living.

Why did you start sharing your story online?

I created my Instagram and TikTok to become the person I wish I'd found during treatment. I wanted other young women facing ovarian cancer to know they aren't alone and that there was a nother human behind it, not just another story, but also to have someone who understands what they're truly experiencing.

What advice would you give someone experiencing persistent symptoms?

Advocate for yourself. If something doesn't feel right, keep pushing for answers. Don't let anyone convince you that persistent symptoms are 'normal' without proper investigation. Early diagnosis can make all the difference.

What message would you like readers to remember?

Cancer doesn't end when treatment ends. Recovery is physical, emotional, and lifelong. It's okay to ask for help, talk about your mental health, and advocate for yourself every step of the way.