Hi, I’m Catherine. I'm a survivor of stage 3 colorectal cancer and I have more than three children. Cancer has unfortunately touched my family before. I lost my grandmother, although I never got to meet her, and also my uncle to the disease.

Despite the intense treatments, side effects, and financial strain, I find strength in prayer and the love of my loved ones, holding onto hope for the future.

I had massive clots and blood in my stools and a change in my usual bowel habits.

Hence, I went to a hospital, where they diagnosed me with stage 3 colorectal cancer.

After the diagnosis, I started making changes to my diet and eating better. I cut out all soft drinks; no more sugar. I ate more salads.

My doctor recommended chemotherapy and radiation therapy, and I opted for both.

I felt anxious when I first decided on the treatment plan.

The treatments came with their own set of challenges, especially the side effects: diarrhea, fatigue, and hair loss.

I managed the side effects with prescribed medication and even had to use a colostomy bag.

Financially, it was a challenge as well. We went from 2 wages to 1, and I have 1 disabled son and student daughters at home. I had to use part of my Super(annuation).

After my treatment, I still continue to be more mindful of my nutrition and diet, aiming to eat healthier food at least 3 days a week. And as for alcohol, I’ve cut back from having two drinks a week to just one.

Before cancer, I was always in touch with my family, calling them regularly and visiting whenever I could. But after being diagnosed, I couldn’t keep in contact as often.

In the next two years, my plans revolve around my family. We made the big decision to move closer to our daughters, especially with our disabled son. We want to be near them in case I get sick again.

We also try to make the most of our time together, going on caravan trips more. It’s not easy, especially with my health not being predictable after I had the stoma reversal.

We planned a cruise trip previously but couldn't afford it now as I can't work anymore.

I do not have any grand aspirations for myself. I just hope I can get by another year to help my family. I kept on praying and getting up again and again every day.

My biggest dreams are for my loved ones. I’ve seen some of them come true already, like watching my twins getting married and seeing them build homes near each other.

My biggest fear was that the pain from radiation would be too hard to cope with. I worried that the tumor would (not) shrink and not being able to see my daughters and grandson. Beyond that, while I was still being treated, I couldn't decide when and where I wanted to die,

I tried my best to overcome these fears, but I said nothing. I just pray every day that my life would stay like this, surrounded by my loved ones.

Today, my emotions still fluctuate. Sometimes, I still feel fearful of what the future may hold.

I’m always worried the cancer will come back. I feel nervous about not being able to use the toilet “normally” anymore.

Nothing in life is guaranteed. When everything seems hard, the people around you can help to support you. Remember that advances in medical procedures will keep getting better and better.