I had a family history of cancer. My sister was undergoing some treatment, so I took some tests and they came back positive. I had stage 3 breast cancer. I also noticed lumps forming in my breast.

At the time, I felt that my doctor hadn’t given me enough information, so I looked for a second opinion as well.

I worked on eating healthier most days a week.

After my own research, I decided to do a mastectomy, chemo, radiotherapy and hormone therapy. I felt neutral after choosing it.

Unfortunately, I had to adjust my treatment plan because of some unbearable side effects. After that, I was much more hopeful, motivated and relieved to continue on. For now, I’m in remission, and still on hormone therapy.

In terms of side effects, the ones that affected me the most were: hair loss, hand and foot syndrome (HFS), and lymphedema. To manage them, I relied on improving my nutrition.

I continued eating healthier at least 3 days a week, and found myself spending lots of time with my family, the same as before.

I plan to travel, especially with my family. I’ve made plans for my dreams to come true, and I want to be with my family.

It’s the cancer returning, but I try to keep my mind busy.

Now, I feel courageous, hopeful and thankful.

To others, I would say: “Cancer is not synonymous with death, have faith.”