It all began with chest pain. I was also coughing non-stop but nothing came out.

As soon as I was diagnosed, I tried to cut back on smoking, and also ate healthier meals every day.

Although I have stopped treatment, the doctor initially recommended that I undergo the following treatments:

• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Hormone therapy
• Pain medication

I also relied on massages and nutritional supplements while I was getting treated.

I still felt scared and anxious after settling on a treatment plan. Being diagnosed with cancer was just very discouraging.

The more prominent side effects I experienced during treatment were fatigue, hair loss and nausea and vomiting. Prescribed medication and better nutrition helped me to cope.

Ever since being diagnosed, I’ve continued to eat healthily on a daily basis. I’ve also been focused on spending more time with my children, and going on more trips to spend the time we have left together.

I’m not sure if I will be around in two years. Right now, I just want to cherish life and live it now. I’d love to see my kids and grandkids grow up without worrying them with my cancer.

It’s been a while since I was first diagnosed, but I cannot shake the sadness I feel.

I’m not afraid of dying but scared to leave my kids behind. I want to spend more time with them, and for now I do so whenever they are home.

Please take care of yourselves, God is with you.