Hi, I’m Aria. I’m from the USA, and I’ve also lost my mom to cancer. At first, I noticed an ulcer on my breast, which made me seek medical consultation. After visiting a doctor, in October 2023, I received a diagnosis of stage 4 breast cancer.
Knowing that I had breast cancer was frightening and worrying. At the same time, I was overwhelmed with a mixture of emotions: vulnerability, nervousness, remorsefulness and emptiness. However, I try to stay confident, courageous and hopeful.
I did not make any changes to my lifestyle after diagnosis.
Currently, I'm undergoing hormone therapy, as recommended by my doctor. I was recommended to have surgery as well but I opted out of it.
Deciding on my latest treatment plans left me feeling a lot more angry and anxious. I felt discouraged and scared.
The treatment left me with side effects including diarrhea, fatigue, nausea and vomiting.
Since starting treatment, I haven't made any permanent lifestyle changes. My focus remains on staying connected with my loved ones. Prior to my diagnosis, I visited my parents often and spent time with my children regularly, and those have not changed. However, I did cut back on trips with my children after knowing that I have cancer.
My only hope now is to get through this treatment and be able to travel again. I plan to take a trip to Florida in the near future. I dream of travelling with my loved ones.
My biggest fear is dying. I talked to my doctor to try to overcome this fear.
Some time has passed since I first received my cancer diagnosis and I feel courageous, hopeful and thankful. While I am no longer fearful like I had been in the beginning, I still feel powerless and remorseful.
To those on their own cancer journey, I'd say: Surround yourself with positive people.
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.
Click here for more information.