Hi, I’m Aalia. It’s been about one to two years since I was diagnosed.
My diagnosis revealed that I had stage 3 breast cancer, with a 33% 5-year survival rate.
I had been experiencing fatigue, and I found a lump when undressing one night.
When I received my diagnosis of stage 3 breast cancer, I felt fearful- frightened and worried about what was to come.
I didn't make any lifestyle changes right after the diagnosis.
My doctor’s suggested treatment plans were multiple surgeries and other procedures. But I only opted for mastectomy, oophorectomy (removal of ovaries) and oral chemo. I felt motivated and hopeful after deciding on my treatment plans.
As of now, I have completed treatment and am no longer taking medication.
I experienced side effects such as diarrhea, fatigue, and hair loss. My doctor has prescribed medication to help manage them. Additionally, I improved my nutrition intake and hopefully, that could further ease the side effects.
My overall lifestyle habits changed slightly after my cancer diagnosis. I exercised a bit more during the treatment period. I visited my parents twice as often as I used to. As for the impact of cancer on my sexual life, there hadn’t been much impact.
I just want to be happy, survive cancer and enjoy life more.
My biggest fear, however, is the cancer progressing to stage 4. It's a scary thought, so I spoke to a psychologist about it.
The fear has dissipated and I feel rather neutral about my disease now.
Reach out to other people going through the same thing, they will be your biggest support. Read as much as you can on your type of cancer and your options. Be your own advocate. Seek professional help for mental health.
This patient's story is published and shared with their full consent. Any personal data that can be used to identify the patient has been omitted.
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