My story started when I noticed white spots around my nipple. Concerned, I sought medical attention. This led to the discovery that I had stage 1 breast cancer.

After my diagnosis, I cut out alcohol entirely, exercised more, and focused on eating a healthier diet.

I opted for a mastectomy and chemotherapy, trusting the doctor’s recommendation and having done my own research. When I finally decided on the treatment plan, I was feeling very happy, relieved, motivated, and hopeful.

I have had the mastectomy and completed chemotherapy in combination with Herceptin. My cancer is now in remission.

I faced some side effects like hair loss, peripheral neuropathy and weight fluctuations, but I managed them with prescribed and self-medication.

After treatment started, I maintained my healthier diet and more regular exercise while refraining from alcohol entirely.

Besides those lifestyle changes, I experienced dwindling intimacy in my relationship after being diagnosed with breast cancer.

I’m retired now and don’t have any plans apart from just living life. My biggest dream is to see my kids grow up, get married, and make their own homes.

My biggest fear throughout this time has been dying too young. But I keep myself busy, both body and mind, to overcome that fear.

After the initial fear, now I feel more optimistic, courageous, hopeful, and thankful.

This is curable and can be fixed. Remain positive and don’t give up, don’t let cancer win. You are bigger than cancer.