I had a lump, as well as a red and swollen breast. I wanted to hear from another doctor so I sought a second opinion after receiving the diagnosis.

I felt sad, powerless and vulnerable.

I exercised 50% more often and ate healthier every day.

Per my doctor’s recommendation, I did a lumpectomy to remove my tumor, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and hormone therapy. I felt angry, discouraged and scared when I first started treatment. I did try some alternative treatments, including bioenergetic therapy. Thankfully, I was declared cancer-free in 2021 but I maintain it with hormone therapy.

In terms of side effects, the ones that affected me the most were: headaches and fatigue. To manage them, I relied on medication as recommended by my doctor, as well as adding turmeric into my diet.

After treatment, I tried to make permanent changes, and kept up with eating healthier every day and exercising more.

I found myself contacting my parents by phone a little less, and instead spent more time visiting them. Intimacy with my partner fell completely. I went on more family trips and spent more time with my children.

My plans for me and my family include traveling abroad. For myself, I want to be more spiritual, travel and keep fit. My biggest dreams are to see my grandchildren start working. I hope my family can be closer and have more outings.

My biggest fear was the cancer relapsing. I worked on this by listening to psychological support talks.

Now, I feel more courageous, hopeful and thankful.

To others, I would say: “This is a process of personal change, valuing life more, and focusing on ourselves. Enjoy your time with friends and family, be more spiritual and know that we are just passing through, preparing for the encounter with our loving Father, God, who loves to the extreme.”