I noticed something suspicious after a self-examination, and went to see a doctor. After that, I was confirmed to have stage 3 breast cancer.

I had mixed emotions when I first heard the news:

• Frightened, helpless and nervous
• Overwhelmed, worried and worthless
• Grief and powerlessness

My doctors initially recommended a mastectomy to remove the whole breast, along with rounds of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. I followed their recommendations.

Honestly, I still felt angry, anxious, and discouraged when they first outlined my treatment plan, but somewhat hopeful as well. Now, I’m in remission but I’m still taking medication for hormone therapy.

The treatment took a heavy toll. I was fatigued and had hair loss. I experienced nausea and vomiting as well. I had to rely on prescription medication to cope.

Once I started my treatment I started on a healthier diet most days a week.

In the next two years, I plan to go for holidays with my family and to go for baking classes. My biggest aspiration is to publish a book and the quotes I wrote. Being able to go for tours with my family has been a dream of mine as well.

My biggest fear was the after-effects of chemotherapy. To deal with it, I just rest more.

I still feel nervous, overwhelmed and worried. But there’s some optimism as well; I feel more hopeful, inspired and thankful today.

It is not a death sentence. Live one day at a time, try to be happy. When you are not, let go. Know what you want and do things that make yourself happy.