Those New DIY Cervical Cancer Tests? One Saved This Gal's Life
Amber Sims shares her personal journey of being diagnosed with stage 3C1 cervical cancer after using a new self-administered screening test. The story emphasizes the importance of early detection and the critical role of a strong support system during intensive treatment.
Why it matters
It highlights the life-saving potential of accessible, self-administered medical screening tools and the human side of cancer recovery.
Amber Sims was 31 when she was diagnosed with cervical cancer last year after a self-administered test, and now, she’s now sharing her story of the support that has carried her through. Alongside her family and closest friends, a Cancer Society nurse became a vital source of reassurance, guidance and care.
Before cancer, Amber Sims was living a life full of plans – teaching music, riding thoroughbreds with her mum and sister, and pouring creativity into everything from work to sewing race-day outfits. But when ongoing abdominal pain and fatigue left her feeling that something wasn’t right, she pushed for answers.
In mid-2025 she went to the doctor for blood tests and, while she was there, also did the new cervical screening self-test.
A few days later, the clinic called with an urgent referral to a gynaecologist. Biopsies followed. Then came the diagnosis: stage 3C1 cervical cancer.
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