I have a first-degree cousin and a second-degree cousin who both had breast cancer, and two other cousins with leukemia. Given my family history, I was diagnosed with cancer after a health examination. I experienced some pricking pain as well.

I did not make any changes to my lifestyle.

I did a lumpectomy to remove just the tumor, as well as chemo and radiation therapy.

Before deciding on it, I did my own research and relied on my doctor's recommendation. Deciding on my treatment plans made me quite relieved and motivated to get through this, but I still felt scared.

I was finally declared cancer-free in June 2023.

I experienced several side effects that really took a toll on me. The worst ones were diarrhea, fatigue, and hair loss.

To manage these side effects, I relied on prescribed medications from my doctor. Despite all this, I didn't face any financial difficulties because of the treatment plans, which was a huge relief.

After my treatment, surprisingly, I didn’t make changes to my lifestyle, but I stayed in touch with my family as often as before. The only difference to my lifestyle was that I couldn’t go on family trips as often with my kids.

For my family, I just want to spend time together and live life to the fullest. As for myself, I plan to attend courses that motivate me. My biggest aspiration is just to live every moment and learn new things.

Throughout my cancer journey, my biggest fear was the after effects of chemotherapy. I relied on psychological help, as well as guidance from my oncologist.

Now, I feel fearful and worried at times.

To anyone currently on their own cancer journey, I’d say: “Go ahead, half of the treatment is in the positivity you put into it, it’s in our thoughts, be grateful that you can have treatment.”