It all started when I had a hard lump in my breast and it was painful. This led to my diagnosis of stage 2 breast cancer. I was also informed by the doctor that my 5-year survival rate was 90%.

After being diagnosed with breast cancer, I was exercising less frequently than I used to.

I opted for the following treatment methods, after taking my doctor’s recommendation, financial reasons and my own research into account:

• Breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) to remove the tumor
• Lymphadenectomy to remove lymph node
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Hormone therapy

After deciding on my treatment plan, I felt slightly relieved, but very motivated and hopeful.

I’ve completed treatment and am now on hormone therapy.

As a result of treatment, I lost my hair and suffered from mucositis and peripheral neuropathy. To manage these side effects, I relied on prescribed medication.

I didn’t make any further changes to my lifestyle after starting treatment.

What did change were my relationships with my loved ones. I don’t call or visit my parents as often as I did before I was diagnosed with cancer.

My bond with my children suffered too; we don’t spend as much time together and have stopped going on yearly family trips. I hope to travel with my family and take some personal trips in the next few years.

Ultimately, my biggest wish is to travel and have fun with my loved ones wherever we go, while quietly supporting each other.

My biggest fear throughout my cancer journey was the discomfort from the side effects of cancer treatments. To tackle this fear, I asked my doctor to prescribe medications to help alleviate the side effects.

These days, I still feel fearful and worried. But on the other hand, I’m also feeling optimistic. I’m confident, courageous, hopeful, inspired, and thankful.

There will definitely be fear and anxiety during the treatment process, but trust in your doctor's care, and you will get through it.