Stepfather wants help for young cancer victim

Trevor Grant is appealing for the help of the public as he seeks assistance for a young woman who was recently diagnosed with cancer.{{more}}

Grant’s step-daughter Ketheisha Williams was diagnosed with cervical cancer just two months ago, he said during an interview with SEARCHLIGHT on Monday, April 23, 2012.

Grant stated that Williams, who recently turned 26, made a trip to the doctor after noticing certain irregularities. After several tests Grant stated that Williams was diagnosed with stage 2 cancer.

Grant stated that when he received the news, he was saddened. “I was sad, because you know I would have heard before about several types of cancer and my grandfather, he died from prostate cancer and I know from what he was feeling.

“Looking at Ketheisha at that time (when she was diagnosed) she was 25; now she is 26, just a few days (ago). I really feel for her,” Grant said.

He added that since she was diagnosed, several fundraising activities have been underway in Owia, where Ketheisha is from, and he is also seeking assistance from other organizations.

Ketheisha’s treatment includes Radiotherapy and Brachytherapy which will cost TT$156, 070.20 and Chemotherapy at a cost of TT$30,000.

Grant appealed to the public to contribute whatever they could to assist Ketheisha, and also to have compassion to others in similar situations.

“…Be compassionate not only to Ketheisha, but in other person’s cases who may have this problem or similar issues. Because none of us know what will happen to us, and it’s good that you can help. Love with your heart; if you give love you will receive love,” Grant said.

He added that if persons are unable to give, they can offer prayers for healing on Ketheisha’s behalf. Grant said Ketheisha is currently in Trinidad, but cannot proceed with treatment until she has acquired the necessary funds. Persons can donate funds to Bank of St Vincent and the Grenadines account # 135652 or call 432-1220.

The cervix is the narrow portion of the uterus where it joins with the top of the vagina. Most cervical cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, arising in the squamous (flattened) epithelial cells that line the cervix.

In the early stages of cervical cancer, symptoms may not appear. Other symptoms may include vaginal bleeding or contact bleeding. Also, moderate pain during sexual intercourse and vaginal discharge are symptoms of cervical cancer.

Symptoms of advanced cervical cancer may include: loss of appetite, weight loss, fatigue, pelvic pain, back pain, leg pain, swollen legs, heavy bleeding from the vagina, bone fractures, and/or (rarely) leakage of urine or faeces from the vagina. (OS)