I found some lumps in my right breast, and they were quite large. After consulting a doctor, I was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer.

I changed my diet to start eating healthier every day.

Based on my doctor’s recommendation, my treatment plan included mastectomy, chemo-, radiotherapy and hormone therapy. Deciding on it made me a bit more motivated and hopeful. Since then, I’ve completed most of my treatments. I’m now in remission, but still taking hormone therapy.

In terms of side effects, the ones that affected me the most were:

• Hand and foot syndrome (HFS)
• Lymphedema
• Hair loss

To manage them, I relied on eating better.

I wanted to stick to eating better, but instead of doing it every day, I managed to continue most days a week instead. I tried to spend more time with my family where I could.

Before I knew I had cancer

• Called/texted my parents 7 times a week
• Visited my parents 10 times a week
• Spent time with my children 7 times a week
• Went on 8 family trips a year
• Was intimate with my partner 8 times a month

After knowing I had cancer

• Called/texted my parents 10 times a week
• Visited my parents 10 times a week
• Spent time with my children 10 times a week
• Went on 2 family trips a year
• Was intimate with my partner 9 times a month

In the next 2 years, I hope to travel with my daughter, and do more activities with friends. My biggest dreams are to stay healthy — to be able to enjoy more time with my family, be with them, and go on outings together.

I was worried the most about my physical recovery. To overcome that fear, I spent more time exercising, as well as with my family.

Now, I’m feeling more thankful, optimistic, confident and courageous about where I am.

To others, I would say: “Stay strong. May the treatment be successful and have faith in God.”