Hi, I'm Olive, and I'm from Ireland, and I've been battling stage 1 breast cancer for the past 2 to 3 years. I am currently receiving hormonal therapy.
My breast cancer was discovered during a routine mammogram. Prior to this, I did not experience any symptoms.
I may be more optimistic and courageous now, but the diagnosis left me feeling confused, overwhelmed and frightened. I was nervous and worried about the things to come, and at the same time I felt powerless and vulnerable.
After being diagnosed, I changed my habits for the better. These days, I exercise more, and eat healthier meals every day.
The initial treatment plan recommended by my doctor involved
However, I suffered unbearable side effects from my initial treatment. I felt very discouraged, and was angry and sad about it.
I changed my treatment plan, but the anxiety and fear still lingers. My cancer is in remission now but I’m still on hormonal therapy. I took traditional Chinese medicine and nutritional supplements to help with my treatment.
I experienced fatigue and weight fluctuations as side effects. But I stayed hopeful and managed my side effects through improved nutrition.
Throughout treatment, I maintained the changes in my lifestyle since I was diagnosed. Breast cancer and its treatment has impacted my sexual life significantly. Despite that, I want to get stronger so that I can take a holiday with my family in the next two years.
I dream of getting back to my old self so that I can retire.
I’m afraid that the cancer will come back. That is why I've been focusing on keeping myself healthy.
Now, I feel optimistic, courageous, and hopeful.
To those on their own cancer journey: Educate and advocate for yourself. Reach out for support.
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.
Click here for more information.