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
Peggy Ong, 64
Sporting a spunky hairstyle which has streaks of grey and white, Peggy definitely does not look 64 at all! Lively and chatty, with a constant smile on her face, she revealed her breast cancer experience.
At the age of 52, 12 years ago, she had a hysterectomy and was undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Six months later, her doctor suggested that she have a mammogram. As there was no history of breast cancer in her family, nobody suggested that she went for a mammogram before. Her fears were confirmed when the doctor informed her that they found a micropapillary carcinoma of the breast. Not wanting chemotherapy or radiation therapy, she went for a mastectomy.
That was all in the past. Today, Peggy is more active than before. Joining BCF’s support group 4 years after her surgery, she has learnt much more about breast cancer and has met many other survivors who have given her motivation and encouragement to move on with life. Peggy now participates in all kinds of activities she has the time for when she is not taking care of her grandson, Sanjay whom she simply adores.
“I feel very fortunate to be able to live till this age to see my grandson! Sanjay is an example of a miracle that gives me hope for the future!”
Peggy joined the Pink Paddlers at the age of 58, when the dragon-boat team was first introduced in 2003. Today, being part of the English support group, she assists in counseling the new members, having cooking classes and organizing retreats. She is currently attending choir lessons and is also one of the twelve calendar girls featured in the 2008 calendar by BCF.
Peggy might not have lost her hair because of chemotherapy, but last year she decided to participate in the Children’s Cancer Foundation’s Hair for Hope project 2007 by shaving off her hair in the name of charity. Her friends and family were all there to support her during her hair cut!
“As I did not go through hair loss during chemotherapy, I wanted to show my support to those who did.”
Peggy has also plans to do it again this year and has even asked a number of friends to join her.
It is amazing how Peggy is able to manage her lessons, exercise regimes and taking care of her grandson during the day. With such an enriching lifestyle, there is no doubt why she enthusiastically looks forward to each new day!