I had a lump the size of a marble. They did an exam and told me to come back. It kept progressing until it eventually turned into breast cancer. My breast retracted inward and the mass grew. I was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer. I sought a second opinion on my diagnosis as my previous doctor did not give me sufficient information. Based on my own research, I knew that I'd have a 5-year survival rate of 60% to 80%.

When I first received my diagnosis, I felt fearful, sad, and surprised. The fear made me feel nervous, overwhelmed, and worried, while the sadness left me feeling disappointed, empty, and powerless. I was also confused and disillusioned.

After my diagnosis, I made significant changes to my lifestyle. I focused on my nutrition and exercise frequency, ensuring I ate a healthier diet and exercised more regularly.

I opted for a comprehensive treatment plan, recommended by my doctor, which included:

• Double mastectomy
• Reconstructive flap surgery
• Lymphadenectomy
• Surgery to remove fallopian tubes and ovaries
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy

I finalized my treatment plan after seeking a second opinion to know more treatment options.

Additionally, I have been taking other medications, Olaparib and Tamoxifen. At home, I also used transfer factors (a type of supplement). Now, I’m in remission but taking hormone medication.
I was very motivated when I decided on my treatment plan. It made me happy, relieved and hopeful.

The treatment came with its challenges, and I faced several side effects such as hair loss, hand and foot syndrome, and feeling too warm. I managed these side effects through improved nutrition and drinking plenty of water.

I couldn't work because of the symptoms caused by chemotherapy. My debts increased and I had no money. Now that I have returned to work, I am paying off debts and it is still very hard.

Since my diagnosis and treatment, I have maintained a healthier diet and increased my exercise frequency. These changes have become a permanent part of my lifestyle. I’ve maintained my relationships with my family including my parents, spouse and children.

My biggest dreams revolve around my family. I want to travel and share every moment with them. For myself, I plan to join a gym to improve my physical appearance. My biggest dream is simply to watch my daughter grow. That has been a huge motivation for me. I want to grow old together with my husband and see my daughter’s dreams come true.

My biggest fear throughout this journey has been the possibility of not making it through.

Reflecting on how I feel now, I am optimistic and feel confident, courageous, hopeful, inspired, and thankful. I am happy.

One should approach this with a positive attitude from the beginning; each of us experiences the process differently. You shouldn't hide away; Go and hold your heads high and accept the care and love from those who want to contribute something positive to this process of love, as I call it. Knowing that I don’t want to and I’m not going to die because I take all the medications and follow the doctors' instructions.