I did not experience any symptoms prior to my diagnosis. I consulted a doctor out of concern as my sister had cancer.

I have completed my treatment and am currently in remission but still taking hormone medication. My doctors recommended a treatment plan that included breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy), radiation therapy, and hormone therapy. I followed my doctor’s recommendations and chose these treatments.

I felt rather positive about my treatment plan. I was a little relieved and I found myself hopeful and motivated.

The side effect that affected me the most was constipation, but I just let it be and did not do anything about it. Financially, it was challenging because I couldn't work. That used to be my livelihood, I used to work day in and out.

There have been no permanent changes to my lifestyle since I began treatment. I’m still able to contact and visit my parents frequently, but intimacy with my partner has taken a hit and I’ve spent less time with my children. We also go on much fewer family trips now.

For my family, I used to travel with my children. That’s something I look forward to doing again. For myself, I plan to participate in an Emmaus retreat. I want to be healthy to enjoy life with my grandchildren and continue caring for my mother. My biggest dream is to be together and have good communication with my loved ones.

My biggest fear throughout this journey was the fear of undergoing chemotherapy.

Being with family and having faith in God helped me to cope with this fear.

I still feel lonely and powerless but also optimistic, feeling courageous, hopeful, and thankful.

Trust in God and embrace the illness.