I discovered two small lumps in my right breast.

I started eating healthier on most days, and exercised 50% more than what I used to do.

By my doctor’s recommendation, I opted for

• mastectomy
• lymphadenectomy
• total hysterectomy
• chemotherapy
• hormone therapy

For my chemotherapy, I took

• paclitaxel
• platinum agents (carboplatin)

After deciding on my treatment, I felt happier, but still anxious, discouraged and scared.

Right now, I’m still taking hormone therapy.

In terms of side effects, the ones that affected me the most were: fatigue, hair loss and mucositis. To manage them, I relied on eating and sleeping.

During my treatment, I had some difficulties financing my travel and accommodation as I lived in a town 3 hours away.

I tried my best to commit to having no sugar, only sugar found naturally in food, aerobic exercise and a positive attitude.

Before I knew I had cancer

• Called/texted my parents 8 times a week
• Spent time with my children 10 times a week
• Was intimate with my partner 9 times a month
• Went on 7 family trips a year

Changes in lifestyle, after knowing I had cancer

• Called/texted my parents 9 times a week
• Spent time with my children 10 times a week
• Was intimate with my partner 4 times a month
• Went on 7 family trips a year

For my family, I plan to finish paying for their university studies first. After that, we can travel more. Personally, I hope to continue working on my business, and have it contribute more to my household. I just want to enjoy life and see my children grow up and fulfill their dreams. All this time, my husband’s love has been unconditional, and has motivated me through everything so far. With my loved ones, my dream is to spend as much time as possible with them, and be a source of support for them.

I had many fears, especially amid the pandemic… Luckily, my family is always attentive to my moods and they look for ways to motivate me to think positively.

Now, I still feel frightened, nervous and worried, but also more optimistic, hopeful and inspired. I’m thankful for where I am now.

To others, I would say: “This diagnosis changes our plans, our life and even the way we see things. One case is never the same as another, but the anguish is the same.... Only little by little and day by day, putting our best efforts forward, we manage to adapt, know ourselves and accept this new reality, in a more grounded way. Family and faith are super important.”