There was burning and pain in the breast. A lump had begun to form, it was growing little by little and hardening. I went to the General Medicine department and was ordered a mammogram and then a breast ultrasound, where the tumor was found. I did have to seek a second opinion, as my first doctor did not give me enough information, and did not order the breast ultrasound test which showed everything. It caused my diagnosis to be three months late.

The news made me feel many things, including:

• Frightened, nervous, infuriated
• Disappointed, grief, powerless
• Confused, disillusioned

I changed my feelings of hatred and resentment, learned to accept others and to stop being such a perfectionist. I exercised 50% more than I used to, and ate healthier every day.

I did a mastectomy, and took up chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy, per my doctor’s recommendations. I felt happy, and quite relieved to start my treatment. It made me motivated and hopeful.

Finally, I was declared cancer-free in May 2022. I no longer need medication.

In terms of side effects, the ones that affected me the most were:

• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting

To manage them, I relied on the medicine that the doctor gave me.

I tried my best to commit to eating healthier every day, and I gave up feelings of resentment and perfectionism.

Before I knew I had cancer

• Called/texted my parents 3 times a week
• Spent time with my children 5 times a week
• Went for family trips 3 times a year
• Was intimate with my partner 7 times a month

After knowing I had cancer

• Called/texted my parents 8 times a week
• Spent time with my children 10 times a week
• Went for family trips 10 times a year
• Was intimate with my partner 2 times a month

I want to spend more time with my family on special occasions, and travel. For myself, I plan to work until my pension comes out so I can travel and spend more time with my family. For my family, I dream of enjoying more time with them, and want to be an example of continuing to fight and work hard.

It’s to die. What kept me going was relying on God and putting on a positive attitude... Good vibes.

Honestly, I was surprised by how everything improved so quickly. Now I feel more confident, courageous, hopeful, inspired and thankful.

To others, I would say: “First of all surrender your illness to God... Change any kind of bad feelings you have towards others... And be punctual and dedicated to your treatment.”