My cancer journey started with a lump on the lower part of my left breast. It seemed harmless at first, but I was worried as it became increasingly painful. That nagging discomfort made me see a specialist.

After the diagnosis, I knew I had to make some changes. I reduced my alcohol intake. I tried to prioritize healthier food, eating well 3 to 5 days a week. However, I wasn't able to exercise as much.

After the diagnosis, things moved quickly. My doctors outlined a plan:

• Surgery to remove my breast
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation
• Hormone therapy
• Targeted therapy

I decided to trust my doctors completely. But as I learned more about the treatments and their side effects, I made the decision to change my plan.

While I still needed the surgery, I explored options for less intensive chemotherapy or potentially delaying some therapies. I felt a bit angry and discouraged at all the treatments I would have to get, but felt a little hopeful too.

The chemotherapy made me incredibly sick –

• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Diarrhea

Some days, just getting out of bed felt like a victory. I leaned heavily on prescribed medications and tried to eat as well as I could to manage the worst of it.

Unfortunately, this treatment regime caused some financial strain. Even with insurance, some of the newer medications were not covered and I had to pay with my own money.

One big change that stuck was my nutrition/diet. I'm eating a healthier diet 7 days a week now.

My relationship with my parents hasn't changed much since my diagnosis. We've never been the type to call or visit often. That's just our family dynamic.

My focus right now is on the next few years. It feels good to make some plans. This summer, some of my extended family is visiting from Japan. I'm really looking forward to it. I also have some work trips lined up and plan to catch up with friends. After being so isolated during treatment, it's exciting to think about reconnecting.

Getting a promotion at work is my big career aspiration right now. My cancer journey has definitely made me realize the importance of pursuing my goals. Of course, I also want to be there for my loved ones, making new memories and cherishing the time we have together.

Even though I'm finished with active treatment, a fear still lingers in the back of my mind. What if the cancer comes back? The hormone medication I'm on is supposed to help prevent that, but sometimes I worry it won't be enough. The thought of finding another lump... It terrifies me. I haven't really found a way to overcome this fear yet. All I can do is to do self-exams often and follow up with my family doctor regularly.

Today, I'm feeling a mix of things. Some days I'm optimistic about the future, excited to get back to my life. Other days, it's like I'm just going through the motions, feeling neutral.

We are more than just our cancers. Let's take back the narrative and the control over our lives!