I noticed lumps in my breast and pain in my armpits.

After my diagnosis, I felt quite a few things, including:

• Helplessness, insecurity and nervousness
• Being overwhelmed and worried
• Grief and vulnerability

I tried to eat better most days, and started exercising more than I used to. I cut down my drinking from ten drinks a week, to just one per week.

I did a mastectomy, lymphadenectomy, chemo, radiotherapy, hormone therapy and targeted therapy.

When I decided on my treatment plan, I felt anxious, but neutral otherwise. I’m currently in remission, but I’m still on hormone therapy.

I wasn’t majorly affected by side effects but I lost my job during my treatment journey.

I tried my best to commit to eating better, exercising at least 50% more, and to stick to cutting down on the drinks.

Before I knew I had cancer

• Called/texted my parents 10 times a week
• Spent time with my child 5 times a week
• Went on 5 family trips a year

After knowing I had cancer

• Called/texted my parents 5 times a week
• Spent time with my child 10 times a week
• Went on 0 family trips a year

I hope for me and my loved ones to travel more, relax as much as possible, go to bed early, get up early, exercise and eat in moderation. What motivated me was remembering that after recovering, I could go out, have fun and eat well. For my family, I hope they are always in good physical health.

My biggest fear was relapse. To not think about it, I spent more time traveling.

Now, I still feel fearful, nervous and worried. I feel pretty similar to before.

To others, I would say: “Face cancer with courage, be proactive during treatment, and get yearly mammograms.”