I’m Ornella. In 2013, I discovered a small lump in my right breast during a self-exam. That eventually led to a breast cancer diagnosis.

Unfortunately, breast cancer returned when I was 40 in 2022. Now, I’m cancer-free, focused on family, and optimistic about the future.

It all started in 2013. I was in the shower, doing my usual self-exam when I felt a small lump in my right breast. So, at my annual check-up with my gynecologist, I mentioned it.

She took it seriously and referred me to a breast specialist. The specialist ordered an ultrasound and later a mammogram. Both tests showed suspicious nodules, and I had to undergo a core needle biopsy.

Once the results came back, the breast cancer diagnosis was verified. It was stage 2 breast cancer.

After receiving the diagnosis, I sought a second opinion. I wanted to consult with a more experienced or prestigious doctor to be absolutely sure. The doctor informed me of my five-year survival rate, which was 100%, a small but significant relief in the midst of everything.

The diagnosis prompted me to make several changes in my lifestyle. I began to eat a healthier diet more regularly, making sure to do so three to five days a week. Additionally, I increased my exercise frequency by about 50%.

After my diagnosis, the treatment journey began. My doctors recommended a comprehensive treatment plan that included:

• mastectomy
• lymphadenectomy
• chemotherapy
• radiation therapy
• hormone therapy

I followed their advice and opted for every treatment they suggested.

Chemotherapy was an essential part of my treatment plan. I was given

• Docetaxel (Taxotere)
• Carboplatin (Paraplatin)
• Antibody drug conjugates

I didn't seek a second opinion or look for alternative treatments.

I was happy, relieved, motivated and hopeful about the plan laid out for me. Finally, in September 2022, I was declared cancer-free.

The side effects that affected me the most were hair loss and loss of appetite. These side effects took a toll on me, but I managed them by improving my nutrition and ensuring I got plenty of sleep and rest.

Financially, I was fortunate not to face any significant difficulties because of the treatment plans.

Since my treatment ended, I’ve made some lasting changes to my lifestyle. I've increased my exercise frequency, and I'm now committed to a healthier diet several days a week.

The cancer journey has also changed how I connect with my family. Since my diagnosis, I text or call my parents much more often. Despite the challenges I faced, I continued to visit my parents frequently. That hasn’t changed.

Looking ahead, I want to take family trips, spend more quality time together, and ensure everyone maintains a healthier diet. Personally, I plan to practice yoga, take time for myself, and enjoy more moments with my family.

My biggest dream is to see my son grow up, spend many more years with my family, and achieve professional independence. These aspirations have been a significant source of motivation throughout my cancer journey. I want to see my son with his own family, see my grandchildren and spend time with them.

Throughout my journey to recovery, my biggest fear was my loved ones suffering because of me, and seeing my parents and siblings sad.

To overcome this fear, I had to be brave, leave everything in God's hands and put all my effort and enthusiasm into my recovery.

Now, I feel optimistic. I feel confident, courageous, and hopeful about the future.

The diagnosis of cancer is not a death sentence. On the contrary, it is a wake-up call from life and God to change something we are not doing right.

I know that this moment overwhelms us and we fall into sadness, but just as we fall, we must rise, with more strength and courage. We must never lose faith and hope in God, and remember that God gives his toughest battles to his strongest warriors.