Cancer survivor emerges stronger after Hospice care

In a story of unparalleled courage and resilience, Lydia Lerata, a brave mother of two, emerged victorious in her battle against cervical cancer and is now boldly spreading awareness.

Her story of survival, deeply intertwined with the compassionate care she received at Stepping Stone Palliative Care Services, serves as a beacon of hope for countless others facing similar challenges.

Lydia was diagnosed with cervical cancer in October 2014, a diagnosis that turned her world upside down. She was only declared cancer-free two years later.

Faced with an uncertain future, she found solace and strength at Stepping Stone Palliative Care Services, where the dedicated staff provided not only medical care but also emotional and spiritual support.

Today, she is not just a survivor but a thriving testament to the power of comprehensive care and unyielding hope.

Her journey through Hospice care was marked by moments of deep reflection, resilience, and a relentless will to live.

Under Hospice’s loving care and with the assistance of a multi-disciplinary team of doctors, highly qualified nurses, caregivers, social workers, and counsellors, more than 3 000 of these patients died a dignified, and in most cases, symptom-free death.

However, there is also another side to Stepping Stone Hospice, the one where a patient is admitted, cared for, and subsequently given the approval to return home to family and friends.

Such is the case of Lydia, who, after four months of care in the In-Patient Unit, returned home and to the work that she so enjoyed.

Having conquered cancer, she now dedicates her time to raising health awareness and the importance of palliative care.

Defying the odds

She said her experience with cancer completely changed her perspective on life.

“It has increased my appreciation for life. I’m now trying to make people aware of their health issues, and this has revealed that I’m able to face difficult challenges in life and still come out victorious. The most challenging part of my journey was when I first received my colostomy. I thought, ‘How am I going to survive living with a urostomy pouch? Then I had to get a second colostomy,’” Lydia said.

She mentioned the presence of a dedicated team of Stepping Stone’s healthcare professionals who ensured that she received appropriate medication, therapies, and emotional and social support, which helped her greatly through her recovery.

Her story has inspired many, and she continues to advocate for better support systems for those battling serious illnesses.

“Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego believed in God, but they went through a pit of fire; God was still with them, and they came out unharmed. No matter how sick a person can be, God is still with us all the way. This is where your faith is put to the test to see how strongly you believe in God. Keep up your faith, stay strong, and never give up hope. There is always light at the end of the tunnel,” she said.

She thanked the unwavering support she received from friends and family.

The future looks bright for Lydia, who works locally as a competence assessor for a prominent company.

She is studying for an advanced diploma in business management and aims to enjoy every minute that life has to offer.

For more information about Stepping Stone Palliative Care Services and their offerings, contact them at 010 442 5059 or via email at info@steppingstoneHospice.co.za