Hi, my name is Emma and this is my cancer story.

After suffering from pain in my breast and armpit, I was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer. The diagnosis was shocking to me, and I was both sad and fearful.

I was recommended for a mastectomy, lymphadenectomy, chemotherapy and hormone therapy as part of my treatment plan, which I followed through with.

My journey with breast cancer began with pain in my breast and armpit, prompting me to seek medical attention for further evaluation. I was eventually diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer. Following the diagnosis, I sought out a second opinion with a private clinic to consult a more experienced doctor and explore additional treatment options.

Despite the uncertainty, I made changes to my lifestyle in preparation for treatment. In particular, I was focusing on improving my nutrition with a healthier diet and exercising more regularly.

At the private clinic I went to, I underwent a comprehensive treatment plan as recommended by my doctors and according to my own research. This included:

• Mastectomy
• Lymphadenectomy
• Chemotherapy
• Hormone therapy

Deciding this treatment plan did make me feel a little anxious and scared.

As of now, I’m done with active treatment, but I’m still on hormone therapy. I also opted for alternative treatment in the form of massage.

Despite the effectiveness of the treatment, I encountered several side effects that significantly impacted me.

• Hair loss
• lymphedema
• nausea
• vomiting

were the major side effects that I experienced. Managing these side effects was challenging, but I improved my nutrition and was also prescribed medication to alleviate their impact as much as possible.

Since beginning my treatment, I've made some significant changes in my lifestyle. I've committed to exercising twice as much as before, striving for a healthier and more active lifestyle. Additionally, I have embraced a healthier diet, opting for nutritious meals every day of the week.

My plans for the next two years include traveling for work and signing up for a marathon next year.

My biggest aspirations are to be healthy with my loved ones and cherish them more, spend more time with my parents and cherish our time together.

My biggest fear is that the cancer can come back because I cannot do the things I love like traveling and spending time with family. I've done nothing big, just spend more time with loved ones. I also pray to God and ask for his guidance.

Reflecting upon my emotions today as someone who has survived cancer, I feel optimistic and hopeful for the future.

For those currently navigating their own cancer journey, I impart this advice:

Behind the challenges of breast cancer, there is a life waiting for you. Place your trust in God's hands and have faith in His judgment.