In March 2020, I received a phone call from my gynecologist that changed my life forever. The biopsy results showed that I had endometrial cancer in my uterus.

In that moment, I was completely numb and speechless. My mind immediately filled with questions: Was I going to be okay? Would I see my children get married? Would I ever become a grandmother?

After gathering myself, I began asking my doctor what this diagnosis meant. She explained that the cancer had been caught in its earliest stage. I would need a total hysterectomy, but because the cancer appeared to be contained within my uterus, she was hopeful that surgery alone would be enough.

My husband and I immediately decided that Penn Medicine was the best place for my care. We began researching surgeons, and my husband handed me a tablet and encouraged me to read each doctor's biography and patient reviews to find someone I felt comfortable trusting with my life.

When I came across Dr. Simpkins, I knew she was the right choice. Her credentials were outstanding, and every patient review spoke of her compassion, expertise, and dedication. Despite the challenges of the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, I was able to schedule an appointment quickly. My surgery was set for May 6, 2020, and that marked the beginning of my journey.

A Life-Changing Surgery

Dr. Simpkins successfully performed a laparoscopic total hysterectomy, removing the cancer. Initially, I believed I was cancer-free, never imagining that the next five months would become one of the greatest challenges of my life.

The following day, Dr. Simpkins visited me to explain why the surgery had taken much longer than expected. During the operation, she discovered cancer cells floating in my left fallopian tube and a 4 mm cancerous spot on my right ovary. She also removed all of the lymph nodes in my abdominal area to ensure every possible trace of cancer was eliminated.

Although the visible cancer had been removed, she explained that I would still need additional treatment to destroy any microscopic cancer cells that could not be seen. She was honest about the road ahead, telling me that treatment would be difficult—but she also promised she would be with me every step of the way.

Over the next eight weeks, I focused on healing from surgery, rebuilding my strength, improving my diet, and beginning a daily exercise routine to prepare my body for what was to come.

Finding Strength Through Faith and Family

The daily walks I took—sometimes alone and often with my son, Alex—became one of the most important parts of my recovery.

During those quiet walks, I spent countless hours talking with God. I reflected on the habits I wanted to change, the life I wanted to live, and the incredible gift of being given a second chance.

Walking with Alex helped prepare me for the battle ahead. His encouragement kept me positive, reminded me never to give up, and gave me the strength I needed throughout treatment.

The Fight

My treatments began in June 2020 and concluded on October 7, 2020.

The journey was far from easy. Chemotherapy brought bone and muscle pain, overwhelming fatigue, and the brain fog that so many cancer patients experience. Treatments occurred every three weeks, with the first week after each treatment being the most difficult. Between chemotherapy sessions, I also underwent targeted radiation treatments, which added even more fatigue.

Finally, after months of fighting, my treatments came to an end.

I was able to ring the bell—a moment that symbolized hope, perseverance, and victory.

Throughout my journey, I was surrounded by an extraordinary team of physicians, nurses, and nurse practitioners. They not only provided exceptional medical care but also made me feel safe, supported, and never alone.

More Than Losing My Hair

One of the questions I am asked most often is whether I lost my hair.

The answer is yes.

I lost all of my hair—on my head, my face, and my body. What surprised me most was realizing how much our eyebrows and eyelashes contribute to our sense of identity.

Yet what initially felt devastating eventually became one of the greatest blessings of my journey.

Cancer taught me to connect with the person I am on the inside. I learned to appreciate the way God made me instead of worrying about every wrinkle or imperfection. My focus shifted from how I looked to who I was and how I could become a better person.

Turning My Experience Into Purpose

As I learned more about endometrial cancer, I discovered something that surprised me.

It is one of the least-funded cancers affecting women, and there remains a common misconception that it only affects older women.

That simply isn't true.

I was diagnosed at 54 years old, and more women are being diagnosed at younger ages than ever before. By sharing my story, I hope to raise awareness so that more women recognize the importance of paying attention to symptoms, advocating for themselves, and seeking medical care early.

Giving Back

Dr. Simpkins will always be my angel.

She saved my life.

Today, I ask you to help me support Dr. Simpkins and the Gynecologic Oncology Team as they continue their important research. Their goal is to eliminate endometrial cancer, and every donation helps move us one step closer to that future.

Your generosity can help fund research that will benefit countless women—our mothers, daughters, sisters, aunts, friends, and future generations.

Six Years Cancer-Free

I am grateful to share that, as of May 2026, I am six years cancer-free.

At my final follow-up appointment, my oncologist, Dr. Martin, told me she felt confident enough in my health that she could now "watch me from afar." Hearing those words was an emotional milestone that reminded me just how far I had come.

Today, Dr. Martin and I see each other each year at the annual 5K Walk/Run, where we work together to raise awareness about endometrial cancer and help fund research for future patients.

Thank You

Thank you for taking the time to read my story.

If my experience encourages even one woman to listen to her body, seek medical attention sooner, or inspires someone to support endometrial cancer research, then sharing my journey has been worthwhile.

Together, we can bring hope, raise awareness, and continue the fight to end endometrial cancer.

-Jackie Criswell