I went for my annual check-up with my gynecologist, then he scheduled me for a follow-up in six months to review the results of a mammogram and an ultrasound scan. In the mammogram, he found a mass in my breast. I was referred to an oncologist who took a biopsy and confirmed my stage 2 breast cancer.

After my diagnosis, I exercised 50% more than I used to, and ate better every day.

For my treatment, I did a mastectomy, lymphadenectomy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. I was hopeful, motivated and relieved to decide on my treatment. While I’m in remission now, I’m still on systemic anticancer treatment, a low-toxicity monotherapy.

In terms of side effects, the ones that affected me the most were: hair loss and fatigue. I also had fainting episodes.

To manage them, I relied on exercising more, and improving what I ate.

I was filled with the desire to live, I thanked God for allowing me to enjoy the wonders of waking up every day and the opportunity he gives me to enjoy more time with my family and friends. Since I started this stage in my life, my oncologist, mastologist, radiologist, chemotherapy and radiotherapy ward staff have been a great support. I followed their recommendations, made some changes in my diet, I did very well in surgeries, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, I ate very well. I faced the situation with courage and fortitude. The change in my appearance was what made my friends notice what was happening, since my weight remained the same. I also continued to work on exercising more and eating better on a daily basis.

Before I knew I had cancer

• Visited my parents 10 times a week
• Spent time with my children 9 times a week
• Went on 3 family trips a year

After knowing I had cancer

• Visited my parents 10 times a week
• Spent time with my children 10 times a week
• Went on 10 family trips a year

My plans are made only in the short-term, trying to enjoy every minute of life, share with my family and friends, enjoy a good coffee, an outing, a walk, a trip. But above all, to be surrounded by my loved ones in the place that God has us to share.

After the big news I had mixed feelings, but what kept me on my feet were my daughters. I got closer to God as well. I try not to make long-term plans and live to the fullest, enjoy time with family and friends, laugh more, eat better, play sports and be a better person.

It’s that God would not allow me to continue to live. Of course, I tried to overcome it, and held on to life.

Now, I feel optimistic and thankful.

To others, I would say: “During this process, the words, messages and prayers come quickly, and that is very gratifying, to feel that people join in praying for someone, it’s wonderful.

I have received support from my doctors, health staff, from the cancer foundation, from my lovely mastologist, from the community where I work, from my friends, from my co-workers, from my family, but above all from my daughters and son-in-law who are the engine that keeps me going.

When you are diagnosed with cancer it is associated with death, but in reality it is synonymous with living.

God gives us another chance, let's not waste it, let's trust the medical staff and above all, FOLLOW THEIR ADVICE. Life consists of wonderful moments that we must live fully hand in hand with God, let's keep our faith strong, let's be cheerful, resilient. IT'S OK TO CRY, WHAT IS NOT OK IS TO GIVE UP!”