A mother suffering from stage four cancer and who consequently considered assisted suicide now champions life.
Estelle Wignall, 27, from Wigan, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer two years ago. The impact of the diagnosis, her second in two years, was devastating. She even considered a trip to Dignitas in Switzerland to end her life.
Estelle was diagnosed with grade one ovarian cancer in 2017, which was successfully treated.
Then, in 2019, Estelle – who had just given birth to a baby girl, named Brooke – was diagnosed with stage four ovarian cancer, which had spread to her liver and lungs.
“I was devastated”, says Estelle, who was told she had only two and three years to live.
“The first time I had cancer, I coped well. But this time, because of Brooke, I was heartbroken. She was just six months old, and it felt so cruel.
“I had only just started being a mum, and I didn’t want it to be taken away.”
Considering assisted suicide at her lowest moment, Estelle’s attitude has now changed after receiving cancer treatment, including chemotherapy.
“The cancer diagnosis was a bombshell, but I am determined to fight it so I can see my little girl grow up… I have a wonderful family around me; a loving husband, a beautiful daughter.”
Estelle now champions life and encourages others to have the courage to do the same. Assisted suicide is not the answer.
SPUC comment
A SPUC spokesperson said: “Estelle has every reason to stay alive and experience the joys of life, including her precious daughter, Brooke.
“Death is never the answer to suffering and setbacks. And it is family that reminds us that life is, indeed, worth living.
“Every year, dozens of UK citizens travel to a Dignitas clinic in Switzerland, where they obtain physician-assisted suicide.
“Fortunately, Estelle’s love for her daughter helped her make the decision not to give in to fear and despair but to fight on, not only for herself but also for her family.”
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