Cristina Profile
Cristina, 45
Breast CancerStage 2
Colombia
White
Year of Diagnosis
2022
Discovery
Slight breast indentation
Treatment Plan
Surgery, chemo- and radiation therapy
Side Effects
Fatigue, hand/foot syndrome, lymphedema
Ways to Manage Side Effects
Improved diet and medication
Cristina Profile

Hi, my name is Cristina. I'm a 45-year-old woman from Colombia, a mother of one undergoing treatment for stage 2 breast cancer.

Symptoms Breast Self Examination 2

I had no family history of breast cancer; I was the first in my family. It was around December 2021 when I noticed a slight dimpling in the areola of my left breast. It was very minimal, and I didn’t feel any discomfort, so I didn’t pay much attention to it.

Around February, my right big toe started to hurt a lot to the point that I couldn't walk; it was very painful and swollen. So, I went to the doctor for my foot, but I also took the opportunity to mention what I had discovered in my breast.

I told him, "Doctor, I know you usually only treat one thing per consultation, but for me, my foot is more important because I can't walk." He replied, "No, ma'am, both things are very important," and he ordered an X-ray for my foot and an ultrasound for my breast.

I started scheduling the appointments, and the first one that came up was the breast ultrasound, and that’s where this story began. As it turned out, my foot stopped hurting afterwards. It was God telling me to go to the doctor and get checked because He loves me very much.

When I first received my diagnosis, I was fearful and frightened.

Emotions Confused 1
Lifestyle Healthy Diet Days 1

After the diagnosis, I was eating a healthier diet every day.

Emma Medical Care

The recommended treatment plan included a mastectomy (removal of the entire breast), lymphadenectomy (removal of lymph nodes), chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. On top of these treatment methods, I also opted for pain medication. I did seek out a second opinion, because I did not agree with having the surgery and reconstruction done at the same time; it didn't seem right to me.

When finalizing my treatment plan, I took my doctor’s advice and financial considerations into account. But, I have to say I felt very anxious, discouraged and scared after making this decision.

Side Effects Financial Burden 4

I struggled with fatigue, hand and foot syndrome, and lymphedema as a result of treatment. To manage, I improved my nutrition and took prescribed medication.

Cancer treatment also put a financial strain on me. I separated from my husband, and he was the one who supported me financially.

Lifestyle Text Call 1

I continued eating a healthier diet on the daily after treatment began.

Apart from lifestyle changes, my relationship with my parents improved since my cancer diagnosis; I call and visit them more often every week. On the other hand, I don’t spend as much time as I used to with my son, and we don’t go on our yearly family trips anymore.

Jacqueline Aspirations

Looking ahead, I just want all of this to end so I can go back to being the woman I was before. I plan to finish my treatment and return to work.

My biggest dream is to be told that I am healthy again. My son has been my motivation throughout this entire journey. I aspire to return to having a normal life and to move forward with my son.

Biggest Fear Therapy 1

My biggest fear throughout my journey to recovery was leaving my son alone. The thought was terrifying so yes, I have sessions with a psychologist.

Clara Biggest Fear

Even now, I am still fearful and frightened. On top of that, I find myself overwhelmed with helplessness, nervousness, worry, and even worthlessness.

Words Praying 3

“Don’t give up because the last word belongs to God. It is a very big test, but we all have inner strength that we don't know about, and we are capable. On those days when you don’t want anything, when you feel like giving up, take refuge in prayer. God is the only one who gives us the strength we need to move forward.”

This patient's story is published and shared with their full consent. Any personal data that can be used to identify the patient has been omitted.
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