I was diagnosed less than a year ago, through some routine tests. I got my diagnosis after a routine mammogram, followed by an ultrasound and finally excision biopsies. Based on my own research, I found out that I had a 91% 5-year survival rate. The fatigue I felt was one of the noticeable symptoms.

After my diagnosis, I changed my lifestyle, focusing on exercising more and eating healthier every day.

Currently, I'm still taking medication. My doctors recommended breast-conserving surgery (also known as lumpectomy, which just removes the tumor), lymphadenectomy (removal of the lymph nodes), radiation therapy and hormone therapy.

I opted for these treatments based on my own research, my doctor's recommendation and financial reasons.

I did look for a second opinion to learn about more treatment options. It was a tough decision in the end, but I felt relieved, motivated and hopeful after deciding on my treatment plan.

I faced side effects like fatigue and changes in my weight. These were managed through improved nutrition and prescribed medication and self-medication. I did face some financial strain, as I had to monitor the impact of treatment on pre-existing hypertension, along with some other difficulties.

Since beginning treatment, I've made permanent changes to my lifestyle, exercising more often and eating healthier every day. Since I found out I had cancer, I’ve been spending time with my children a little more often each week. I still go on family trips with my children quite often.

Initially, I had planned to work on stress and weight reduction for myself. My biggest dreams include completely financing my kids' education and retiring without hardship. With my loved ones, I hope to be able to finance big life things like supporting their career, weddings and vacations, while retiring in comfort.

These dreams strengthen my resolve to get better and healthier, although now, with my spouse's Parkinson's diagnosis, it's all a bit overwhelming. Surviving this new challenge has superseded the cancer care plan. Now I just need to get from day to day.

My biggest fear throughout this journey has been recurrence and dying before my children gain financial and emotional independence. I worry about never enjoying retirement in comfort or having the luxury of time and calmness to strengthen my relationship with God.

I've tried therapy and plan to dig deeper into finances to have a plan. I want to pay closer attention to my weight and health now as a priority.

Right now, I still feel fearful, overwhelmed and nervous. I also feel sad nowadays, in a sense where I feel isolated, powerless and vulnerable. However, I still feel optimistic and hopeful that I caught it early.

To those on their own cancer journey, I'd say: Get as much information as you can and work with a care team that you believe in and are comfortable with. Make clear decisions and follow guidance and ask, ask, ask for help and support and clarity when you don’t have it. Use all resources available to you. Be prepared not everyone will react as you expect. God bless you!