My mum had breast cancer diagnosed about thirty years ago, around age 51 and we were told to check. I found mine around November 2017, but was told by the GP that they had no appointments until Jan 2018. Luckily I was sent to another hospital, and was diagnosed at grade 3C.

When I first received the news, I felt optimistic. I wanted to fight it head on, I was confident and courageous.

My cancer was highly dependent on hormones. I needed to make some life changes, to not stress, so that nothing would disrupt my hormonal balances.

The treatment plan included breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy), chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. I also joined a clinical trial for an aromatase inhibitor. The decision to follow this plan was straightforward, based on my doctor's recommendations. I felt quite hopeful, relieved, and motivated.

Thankfully, I’m now in remission and no longer require treatment. I also didn’t experience serious side effects, and didn’t have many financial difficulties when it came to my treatment plans.

During treatment, I didn't make any further changes to my lifestyle beyond what was necessary.

For the next two years, I don’t have plans. I just want to live one day at a time with my husband. My biggest aspiration is to keep fighting head-on, as well as spend quality time, and make memories with my loved ones.

I was worried about protecting my dad, as all of us were with our mum in her cancer battle. For my family, it starts during menopause, and hasn’t seemed to skip a generation. For me, I was diagnosed at age 45, while my mum, at 51. I worry for my sisters, especially as they have two girls and two boys. There’s no getting over the fear, I just try to live a normal life as best as I can.

I still feel optimistic. Should it come back, I want to fight it head on again.

To those currently battling cancer, I would say: "Remember, you have a family around you that has been through this journey and can guide you. Everyone’s experience is different, but stay strong and face it head-on early."