Stage 4 Cervical Cancer Survivor Defies Stigma: Aisha McClellan’s Advocacy Journey

Meet Aisha McClellan, a 7-year survivor of stage 4 cervical cancer. A 32-year-old single mother of three young children, uninsured, and unaware of her risk at the time her symptoms began, the odds were stacked against her. She faced dire challenges: barriers to timely diagnosis and care, perceived shame and stigma associated with cervical cancer, and harrowing statistics that made her prepare for the very real possibility of her own death. And yet, hers is a story of hope.

Throughout her transformative cancer journey, she advocated for herself at every turn and met each obstacle with fierce determination. Now 7 years in remission, she’s taken to social media, amassing over 25,000 followers as @Aisha_the_Advocate on TikTok with her poignant and informative video messages.

She wants people to recognize the stigmas associated with HPV infection and cervical cancer diagnosis, and challenges negative stereotypes and misconceptions with facts. She wants patients to know that it’s ok to get a second opinion. That they should take an active role in learning about their disease and treatment plan. To be kind to themselves and hold on to hope.

By sharing her experiences, she sheds light on the realities of living with and overcoming cervical cancer, offering both education and encouragement. Her openness helps dismantle the shame and silence often surrounding HPV-related diagnoses.

Watch clips from Aisha’s conversations with IGCS Communications Specialist, Debbie Leopold, and learn why she chooses to tell her story and advocate for others, even when it’s difficult.

This video project was supported by Pfizer-Genmab.