Hi, my name is Aurora. I’m a mother of 5 and currently fighting Stage 3 breast cancer.

My journey with breast cancer started in 2021. At the time, I was pregnant, and noticed that half of my breast turned hard.

After the diagnosis, the biggest lifestyle change I made was my diet. I started eating healthier every day.

My doctor recommended several treatments, and I eventually opted for a combination of surgery and other therapies. I had a mastectomy, which meant removing my entire breast, and a lymphadenectomy, which involved taking out lymph nodes. I also underwent chemotherapy (Cytoxan) and radiation therapy. Starting on this treatment made me anxious, but I still felt motivated and hopeful.

After a while, we noticed the treatment plan wasn’t working effectively. Now, I’m just on chemotherapy. After I changed my treatment, I felt more relieved.

The side effects were brutal. The worst ones were diarrhea, hair loss, nausea and vomiting. I had to manage these with prescribed medication.

We did face some financial difficulties at home, normally related to household expenses.

I tried to make the improved diet a permanent change. Unfortunately, since discovering the cancer, I’m no longer able to go on trips with my family. Still, I spend as much time with my children as before.

Right now, I’m just focused on my illness and treatment. I don’t have many plans ahead. My biggest motivation is my children, they are my driving force, my everything. For my family, I dream that they complete their studies and fulfill themselves as individuals.

One of my biggest fears was my body failing to accept the treatment. With much prayer, I was able to deal with this fear so far.

Today, I feel optimistic. I feel thankful for getting to where I am.

To others facing the same, I’d like to say: "Firstly, have a lot of self-love, and a lot of faith in whatever God you have."