Choosing to Fight: A Cervical Cancer Survivor Story

April 7, 2025

Gabrielle McCord-Shufford talks abut her personal journey 

Gabrielle McCord-Shufford resides in Houston, Texas, where she thrives as an insurance professional, devoted mother, and loving wife. As a courageous stage 3 cervical cancer survivor, Gabrielle has navigated the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and the subsequent side effects with strength and resilience. Her personal journey has fueled her passion for advocacy, leading her to become an active and proud member of Cervivor.

Gabrielle is dedicated to spreading awareness about cervical cancer, emphasizing the importance of prevention and early detection. She is committed to empowering underserved communities and youth by providing vital information and resources about cervical cancer prevention. Gabrielle's blend of professional expertise, personal experience, and heartfelt dedication makes her a vital voice in the fight against cervical cancer.

Tell me about your experience being diagnosed with cervical cancer.

On the day I walked into the gynecological oncologist’s office, I thought I was there for a routine exam to determine the severity of my precancerous cells. Instead, I was asked to take a pregnancy test. To my surprise, it was positive. In that moment, everything shifted for me. My official diagnosis of cervical cancer had to wait until after I gave birth.

Two months after welcoming my baby into the world, I underwent a cervical cone procedure. A week later, on a Saturday, my phone rang. It was my doctor. His voice was steady but serious. I had Stage 3 cervical cancer. He suspected it had spread to my lymph nodes. I would need a radical hysterectomy.

I went numb. It felt like I was outside of my own body, watching a nightmare unfold. When I called my sister, the weight of it all finally hit me, and the tears came. My life flashed before my eyes—my husband, my six children. My first thought: I can’t leave them.

But in that moment, I made a choice. I would fight. Cancer would not define me, and it certainly would not consume me.

How did you get connected with Cervivor?

After I rang the bell, marking the end of my cancer treatment, I knew my journey wasn’t over. I wanted to use my voice. I turned to social media hoping to learn more about cervical cancer and connect with other women who had walked this path. I searched the hashtag #CervicalCancer on Instagram.

That’s when I found Cervivor. Their bio encouraged survivors to share their stories, so I did just that. I posted a video, tagged Cervivor, and went to bed not knowing what to expect.

The next morning, I woke up to something incredible. My story had been reposted. My inbox was filled with messages from fellow “Cervivors,” offering support, encouragement, and solidarity. Among them was Kimberly Williams, the Chief of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Cervivor.

At that moment, I felt truly seen. I found my community and sisterhood. Cervivor welcomed me with open arms, and I knew it was exactly where I was meant to be.

What have you been working on related to your advocacy activities?

I’m still new to Cervivor, but I already feel deeply connected to this incredible community. This past January, I had the privilege of attending the Cervical Cancer Summit powered by Cervivor, an experience that left me both inspired and empowered. While I was there, I took a big step and applied for Cervivor School. I’m excited about the opportunity to attend.

Since the Summit, I’ve been actively volunteering with Cervivor, helping wherever I’m needed—mostly with social media. But beyond that, I’ve found my own way to give back. Through my personal social media, I’ve been connecting with and supporting women—cervical cancer survivors and those with questions about HPV. Every conversation reminds me why I chose to advocate: no one should feel alone in this journey.

What has been the most significant change you have seen in yourself since you've started this journey?

I no longer carry sadness about what I went through. During my journey, I spent so much time asking, “Why me?” searching for meaning in the pain. But when I began advocating and became part of Cervivor, everything changed. I found my purpose. My story wasn’t just about what I endured. It was about how I could use it to empower others. And that has been the most healing part of all.

What is your advice about cervical cancer?

As women, we instinctively nurture and care for others, often putting ourselves last. True self-love means prioritizing your health.

Cervical cancer is sometimes called the silent killer—not every woman experiences symptoms. I didn’t. That’s why prevention and early detection are so critical. Protect yourself: get the HPV vaccine, stay up to date with screenings, and follow up with your physician.

Research shows that when cervical cancer is caught and treated early, the five-year survival rate is 93%, yet too many women have lost their lives or had their futures drastically altered by this disease.

Your health matters. Your life matters. Take it seriously because you are worth it!