Hi, I'm Marese from Ireland. In 2020 I found a lump under my left breast and got it checked by a GP.
Subsequently. I was referred to a breast specialist who delivered the diagnosis: stage 2 breast cancer.
There was a lump under my breast.
The frightening news left me numbed by the weight of it. I was grappled with helplessness and vulnerability. I felt nervous and worried about what the future held. The uncertainty left me feeling isolated and powerless. The emotions were so overwhelming that I became resentful and grieved. Amidst the confusion, I tried to stay courageous and hopeful.
After the diagnosis, I knew I had to make changes, especially in my exercise routine and diet. I started exercising 50% more and switched to a healthier diet, committing to it seven days a week.
I changed to a hospital that is closer to me and saw a second oncologist. My cancer care team had recommended an extensive treatment plan which includes lumpectomy, lymphadenectomy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and hormonal therapy. Now, having completed all the treatments, my cancer is in remission. Nevertheless, I continue with hormonal therapy to prolong the remission status. The concrete plan has certainly instilled profound relief and hope in me.
I experienced a range of side effects from the treatments, including hair loss, lymphedema (blocked lymph and swelling), and peripheral neuropathy (numbness). I manage them with prescribed medication. All the doctor consultations and costs of medication took a toll on our finances. My husband also had to take time off work.
I’ve permanently increased my exercise frequency, pushing myself to stay active. Though I'm unable to see my parents as often as I'd like, I make a point of reaching out to them regularly. Additionally, I make sure I’m always there for my children.
I want to do more things together with my family and I want them to feel loved. I look after myself more. The thought of staying alive was strong and has kept me going.
Leaving my kids because of cancer has been a terrifying thought, but I fought very hard to keep positive.
Right now, I feel neutral, taking each day as it comes.
Keep positive. Being sad & depressed won't change your diagnosis. Give yourself time to heal and be kind to yourself. It's absolutely shit but you can do it xxx
This patient's story is published and shared with their full consent. Any personal data that can be used to identify the patient has been omitted.
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