About a year or two ago, I discovered a lump in my breast that turned out to be stage 3 breast cancer. I actually had to seek a second opinion because the insurance system was too slow and I couldn’t get an appointment fast enough. Instead, I went to a private doctor. I also felt changes in the size of my breast, as well as redness.

With the diagnosis, I felt frightened, overwhelmed and infuriated. It felt like grief, and left me feeling powerless.

After the diagnosis, I started eating healthier on most days, whenever I could.

My doctors recommended a comprehensive approach, including mastectomy, lymphadenectomy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and hormone therapy. I was happy and motivated to start, but still felt quite anxious and scared about what lay ahead.

Right now, I’m still receiving treatment, hormone therapy.

In terms of side effects, the ones that affected me the most were the hair loss, nausea, vomiting, and weight changes. To manage them, I relied on self-medication.

I faced some financial difficulties as I was denied care by the insurance system, and had to pay for private care.

I tried my best to commit to eating better. I wanted to make it a permanent change. Still, despite everything happening, I still managed to make as much time for my children as before. Unfortunately, intimate time with my partner fell for me by about 75%.

With my family, we plan to go to the seashore soon. Looking ahead, I’ve made plans that keep me motivated. For myself, my only plan is to take care of my health and beat this illness.

My biggest dream is to enjoy life and health, so that I can see my children succeed. I hope for my kids to study and build their careers.

It’s dying. What kept me going was seeking spiritual help.

Now, I still feel frightened and helpless. However, I feel less angry, and more hopeful instead.

To others, I would say: “First and foremost, approach God, and then seek family support.”