TO ERADICATE BREAST CANCER AS A LIFE - THREATENING DISEASE
I never thought I would get breast cancer. It was a
difficult period for me but with the help of my family,
my support group at Breast Cancer Foundation, and my doctors,
I have finally come to terms with my cancer and learnt to face it. More..
- Breast Cancer Survivor
BCF believes that members play an active role in education and raising awareness of breast cancer. Both men and women are encouraged to become members.
A Survivor’s Story
Janet Goh, 50
Simplicity and sincerity are the two words that best described Janet, a middle-aged married lady. In the course of our conversation with her, we perceived her as a simple, soft-spoken, yet passionate and wise lady.
Janet was diagnosed with breast cancer in December 2003. Before that, she never expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer. Life before that was complacent, simple and plain, with very little ups and downs. All that changed when she found a lump in her breast. She was referred to a General Practitioner (GP), who then recommended her to undergo a mammogram. Within the week, she went for an operation.
“I received great support from my family and friends. My husband and mum were especially encouraging. They told me not to worry about finances and just go for the best treatment available, including chemotherapy and radiotherapy”.
During the course of her treatment, Janet suffered from some side effects such as hair loss, which was fortunately, not very severe. After her surgery and chemotherapy, she took a 1 month break, during which she felt very lonely at home since she did not have any children. During this period of time, her good friends accompanied her after their work, going over to her place to help her with injections. It was also during this time that one of the nurses taking care of her referred her to a BCF counsellor.
Janet resumed work after a 1 month break, but at a much slower and less stressful pace. Fortunately for her, her boss and colleagues were very understanding, and gave her a lot of leeway and help.
Janet’s diet has changed a lot ever since she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She has cut down on deep fried food, though she still takes them once in a while. She has also drastically increased her intake of fruits and vegetables.
“Till today, I have been taking my illness rather well although I worry about recurrence sometimes. But overall, I try not to worry about tomorrow, but let tomorrow worry about itself.”
“My priorities have changed a lot since I was diagnosed. I used to be a workaholic, but now I put my family and friends first.”
“I am very inspired by other breast cancer survivors. Seeing them fight and persevere through their illness gives me strength to go on living”.