I had a lump in my breast. After severe breast pain and bloody discharge from my nipple, I went to seek medical attention and my cancer was discovered. My doctor at the time told me that I had a 99.9% chance of survival, and that it was curable with mastectomy.

After hearing the news, I felt frightened, overwhelmed and worried. It left me feeling quite helpless.

Post-diagnosis, I exercised more often and ate healthier most days of the week.

My doctors recommended quadrantectomy and radiotherapy, and initially I followed their recommendation.

Unfortunately I had unbearable side effects, and had to change my treatment plan. I just did a mastectomy after that.

I felt happier and more motivated after this change. Thankfully, I was declared cancer-free in September 2017.

In terms of side effects, the ones that affected me the most were fatigue, appetite loss, nausea and vomiting.

To manage them, I relied on eating better and medication prescribed by my doctor.

Initially, they did not provide me with the medication and I had to buy it myself, as well as special bras after the mastectomy.

After treatment began, I continued my healthier diet and more regular exercise habits.

Since my diagnosis, my relationships with my loved ones have changed too. I found myself spending more time with my parents, visiting them up to 8 times a week. I still enjoy intimate time with my partner, though not as often as before.

I have 3 kids, and I spend a lot of time with them. We go on at least one trip per year; that hasn’t changed despite my diagnosis.

Looking ahead, I’ve made plans to travel with my family and to work. My biggest aspirations are to be myself and to love myself more. Beyond that, I want to see my daughters fulfilled and for them to succeed professionally.

It’s leaving my daughters on their own. To cope with this fear, I just keep myself busy.

Now, I feel courageous, thankful and more optimistic than before.

Cancer can be overcome with God's help, and most importantly, a positive attitude towards life, wanting to go on and spend time with your loved ones and your own life despite your fears.