It was unexpected, especially as I had no family history of cancer. After I heard the news, I still wanted a second opinion as my doctor hadn’t given me enough information.

I felt confused.

I started eating healthier on most days.

My doctors recommended mastectomy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and hormone therapy, which I followed in the end after doing my own research, and based on my own financial means as well. Then, I felt angry, anxious, discouraged but still hopeful. At times, I didn’t have enough money for transport and to buy medication when the health system didn’t provide them on time.

After everything though, I was declared cancer-free in March 2020. Still, I’m taking hormone therapy.

In terms of side effects, the ones that affected me the most were: fatigue, diarrhea, and hair loss. To manage them, I relied on prescribed medication from my doctor.

I tried my best to commit to exercising more and eating healthier most days.

I found myself spending more time in contact with my parents, but other than that my relationships with my family didn’t change much. I have two kids, and we still go on trips together often.

In the next two years, I want to apply for a visa and plan for my travels. I hope to visit my children. My biggest aspiration is to love my family and be at peace. I want to spend time with them.

My biggest fear was how strong the treatments might be. To deal with the fear, I relied on a lot of prayer.

Now, I feel quite optimistic and thankful.

To others, I would say: “It’s not easy, but with God's help we can learn to cope with this.”