Through self-examination, I discovered a mass that I hadn’t noticed before. It looked suspicious so I consulted a doctor. I was referred to a breast cancer specialist to confirm the diagnosis. It was confirmed that I had stage 2 breast cancer and the doctor informed me of my 5-year survival rate, which was 80%.

I changed both physical and mental aspects of my lifestyle after receiving my diagnosis. I exercised more and ate a healthier diet most days a week. I also practiced mental self-control, filtering thoughts, and each day focusing on living with peace, love, and joy, embracing my process and accepting it as an adventure within myself to recognize and move forward.

I opted for a lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery to remove the tumor), chemotherapy and radiation therapy, as recommended by my doctor.

I'm in remission but still going for appointments with specialists and taking medication.

I felt better after deciding my treatment plan. I was relieved, motivated, hopeful and even somewhat happy about it.

I struggled with fatigue, hair loss and endometrial thickening due to tamoxifen (a type of hormone drug) use. To manage it, I followed the specialist's medical advice and maintained mental serenity.

I did struggle financially as well. To comply with the treatment process, I had to move to another city, and then the pandemic arrived.

I kept up with all the lifestyle changes I made and made them permanent changes.

Since my diagnosis, I’ve been spending more time with my son and going on more family trips with my family.

I was declared cancer-free on 11 November, 2021! I’m looking forward to traveling together with my loved ones, gathering for birthdays and Christmas. Personally, traveling, learning to swim, learning another language, and studying a specialty abroad are some of my personal aspirations.

The dream is to see my son complete his studies and work, have a home, and to travel, discovering lesser-known places, enjoying sunsets, and appreciating each sunrise. I also want to travel, buy land in a rural area, cultivate it, and be more in touch with nature and myself, enjoying the hugs of my son.

I was most afraid that I was going to pass away and leave my son alone.

I accepted that death is part of life and decided to enjoy each day, one day at a time, to serve, love, laugh, and simply live.

‘Thankful’ is the one word I’d use to describe how I feel today. It is important to be spiritually strengthened, regardless of religious beliefs. Establishing a personal and authentic relationship with God led me to take steps of faith and meet wonderful people who became angels, accompanying me and filling each day with joyful moments.

May you embrace the healing process with love. Fears accompany us, but as we move forward one day at a time with steps of faith, we reach the goal. Enjoy yourself; crises come to teach us something. There is life as long as you live with authentic love. Embrace yourself, live today, laugh, simply love...