My name is Hu Jia, and I’m from Taiwan. I discovered I had breast cancer back in June 2023 after my cat kept sniffing me, and a lump developed.

First my cat kept sniffing me, then a month later, a lump was found in the swollen area. After the lump appeared, the cat kept sniffing me, and my diagnosis was later confirmed at the hospital. Still, I found that my doctor did not give me enough information, and I sought a second opinion from a more experienced doctor.

I noticed changes in my emotions and my state of mind (after receiving my diagnosis). Aside from that, I worked on eating healthier a few days each week.

My doctors recommended surgeries (lumpectomy and lymphadenectomy), chemo-, radiotherapy, hormone therapy and targeted therapy. I did my own research and decided to opt out of lymphadenectomy.

Some of my family members are medical professionals in the US. So I also discussed the recommended treatment plan with them. After starting my treatment, I felt motivated, happy and relieved.

The side effects didn’t affect me badly.

Still, it was a difficult time financially, as my income has decreased since the start of cancer treatment. And the medication needed in the future would be a huge burden.

I tried my best to commit to eating healthier most days a week.

Before I knew I had cancer

• Called/texted my parents once a week
• Spent time with my children 3 times a week
• Was intimate with my partner once a month

After knowing I had cancer

• Called/texted my parents once a week
• Spent time with my children 4 times a week
• Was intimate with my partner once a month

For myself, I plan to take classes, study, reflect, do art creation and write. I wish all beings to be free from suffering and to have peace in the world. For my loved ones, I hope they can help others and be helped at the same time.

I fear that the stress I get from my family might cause the cancer cells to grow silently. I tried to manage it, but didn’t succeed.

Now, I still feel the same as before.

To others, I would say: “Being sick is not scary, it is an opportunity given to us by God to re-examine and make adjustments to our lives. Turn to our inner self and learn to trust ourselves. Take back the control of your own life. Only you can decide your own happiness, joy and sorrow. Learn to not take seriously about things and people that don’t matter to you. Consume sufficient nutrients your body needs and maintain a healthy mindset. (If you think) chemotherapy will not pose a threat to you, you won't experience any side effects!”