I had a palpable lump in my right breast, which did not hurt. They referred me to an oncologist, conducted exams, then to a breast specialist for a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). It was confirmed to be stage 3 breast cancer, but my doctor told me that I had a 100% 5-year survival rate.

In my lifestyle, I made big changes. I exercised twice as often as before and ate healthier every day of the week.

I followed my doctor’s recommendations which was to get:

• Mastectomy (removal of entire breast)
• Lymphadenectomy (removal of lymph node(s))
• Radiation therapy

I underwent a radical mastectomy with reconstruction, which was unsuccessful because once they placed expanders, I developed an infection. I underwent 20 radiation treatments.

I felt happy, hopeful, motivated and relieved when my treatment plan was laid out for me.

I’ve since completed treatment and am currently not taking any medication.

The worst side effects that I struggled with were weight fluctuations and a burning sensation on the skin. I managed them by improving my nutrition.

I made the changes in exercise frequency permanent, but I didn’t follow through with the healthier diet and ended up eating unhealthier quite frequently.

Even with the difficulties of cancer treatment, I’m thankful that I’ve been able to maintain all my relationships. We also go on family trips more often now.

In the next two years, I plan to be better financially organized with my daughter. I hope to see an improvement in the economic situation and my biggest dream is to see my daughter build a career as a professional and improve her financial situation.

I’m most scared of the cancer reappearing. I try to overcome this by trusting in God.

Now, I feel more optimistic and thankful.

Don’t be discouraged, life goes on. Everything is in God's hands, think about the present and live for today, to stay motivated.