My name is Debora, and I live in the United Kingdom. In 2017, I was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer, and I’ve lost my father to cancer as well. This is my story.
My journey began with a suspicious symptom—a dimple across my left breast. This led to my eventual diagnosis: stage 3 breast cancer.
When I first heard the news, I felt anger, fear, and sadness all at once. I was
- Frightened, helpless, nervous, overwhelmed, and worried
- Isolated, powerless, and vulnerable.
- Numb, resentful, and withdrawn
Post-diagnosis, I didn't make any immediate changes to my lifestyle.
My cancer treatment plan has changed over time, as four years after my cancer was operated on, I was told it had metastasized.
Initially, my doctor’s recommended treatment plan consisted of:
- Mastectomy (removal of entire breast)
- Reconstruction surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Targeted therapy
- Pain medication
I sought a second opinion to explore more treatment options, following which I opted for the above treatment plan except the reconstruction procedure. I’m currently on targeted therapy.
Some of the chemo drugs I took include:
- Docetaxel
- 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)
- Antibody drug conjugates
After the change in my treatment plan, I felt less scared but slightly more discouraged.
The treatments were not without their side effects. I experienced diarrhea, fatigue, and peripheral neuropathy, which I managed through self-medication. Financially, it was also tough; I found working difficult due to the emotions and amount of appointments.
After starting treatment, my lifestyle habits didn’t change but my relationships did. Although I couldn’t visit my parents as much as I did before, I hung out with my 3 kids more often and we made up to seven family trips per year.
In the next two years, I want to make trips to London, have meals out and go on a helicopter ride with my family. I dream of going on holiday to fulfill my bucket list.
My biggest motivations are to see my new granddaughter and watch my son get married. I aspire to live as long as I can and be there for them all.
Throughout this journey, I’ve been fearing telling my family and close friends, but it had to be done.
Now, I still feel a mix of emotions. While I’m still sad and fearful like before, I also feel optimistic and hopeful.
One day at a time, try and push out the negative with something positive no matter how little. Log your dates. Enjoy those special moments.
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.
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