At the time, I was scheduled for a mammogram because of my age, and then my doctors found a tumor in my left breast. It was stage 1 breast cancer, and I was told I had a 5-year survival rate of 90%.

I made a few changes at the time, eating healthier most days, and exercising 50% more than I used to,

At first, I was recommended lumpectomy and chemotherapy by my doctors, and initially, I followed that plan. The breast surgery procedure was costly since it was minimally invasive.

We changed this treatment plan later, as it was found there was no need for chemo. Before deciding on this, I did some of my own research as well. The change made me more relieved, motivated, and a lot more hopeful about the way forward.

The most severe side effects for me were:

• Fatigue
• Appetite loss
• Weight fluctuations

I focused on improving my nutrition to deal with them.

Rather than just most days, I focus on eating better every day now. My relationships have also changed since the news:

Before I knew I had cancer

• Called/texted my parents 2 times a week
• Visited my parents 0 times a week
• Was intimate with my partner 2 times a month

After knowing I had cancer

• Called/texted my parents 4 times a week
• Visited my parents 1 time a week
• Was intimate with my partner 0 times a month

I look forward to getting married next summer, and traveling with friends. I wanted to open my own hair salon after ending treatment, and this motivated me to have a speedy recovery. My biggest dreams with my loved ones are to marry my husband and spend more time with my parents.

My biggest worry is recurrence or spread to lymph nodes. I talked to my doctors and therapist about managing my anxiety.

Now, I feel optimistic, hopeful and inspired. I’d also say I feel more neutral now.

To others, I would say: “Try to take on a more positive outlook and focus on what you can do and what matters in your life.”