I had a lump in my breast which was biopsied (galactocele — a benign cyst found in the breast that’s usually seen in young lactating women). Another lesion was also found in the other breast which was asymptomatic, but after a recheck and biopsy 3 months later, this turned out to be cancer. I was eventually diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer.

My doctor informed me that I had a 85% 5-year survival rate. I felt fearful, and a little bit perplexed that this had happened, especially since I didn’t have any symptoms. Still, I was a little neutral.

My treatment journey included mastectomy of the affected breast, lymphadenectomy and chemotherapy. Based on my doctor's recommendation and my own instincts, I decided to opt for a prophylactic bilateral mastectomy as I had the BRCA1 mutation. I chose an aggressive approach. I also wanted to avoid radiotherapy. I have to admit, I was slightly anxious after deciding on my treatment plan.

I did experience side effects from treatment, mainly fatigue, hair loss, and mucositis, but I did nothing about it, I just tolerated it. Thankfully, I didn’t face financial difficulties during treatment.

After diagnosis and treatment, I didn't make any permanent lifestyle changes. Cancer really disrupted my life. I had less contact with my parents and intimacy with my partner decreased significantly as well.

Looking ahead, I plan on taking vacations with my family and focusing on work and furthering my education in the next 2 years. I just want to live. My cancer motivated me to try new things even if it was scary and I had to do them alone.

One of my biggest fears has been the thought that I would die and leave my kids without a mother, or that they would have to see me suffer. Truthfully, I have just learned to live with the fear.

Today, I still feel a sense of fear. I feel helpless, nervous and worried that cancer may come back one day. However, I also feel more neutral, accepting things as they come.

To those on their own cancer journey, I'd say: "Do what is right for you, but also trust your doctors. They are the experts."