A Survivor’s Story

Priscilla Lee, 57

Demure and soft-spoken, little did we expect Priscilla to be the captain of the dragon boat team, Pink Paddlers! A homemaker of 30 years and mother of 3 sons (aged 17, 18 and 25), Priscilla was from a sheltered background. After finding a 1.5cm lump in her right breast in December 2002 which was found to be cancerous, she was at a loss and in a state of fear. Having to undergo the operation, chemotherapy, and compulsory radiation therapy was one of the toughest periods in her life.

Taking close to a year to get her health back on track, Priscilla was unable to leave home as and when she desired and had to avoid crowded places when she did so. In her opinion, other than a loss of appetite and constant vomiting, one of the worst side effects she experienced was the loss of hair during chemotherapy. As the hair was the crowning glory of every woman, it was difficult for her to accept such a difference. However, buying a wig helped her regained her confidence.

Her continually strong family support was her pillar of strength. She joined BCF shortly after her diagnosis. Initially, she joined mainly due to the fear of a recurrence and hoped to gain more knowledge and information on breast cancer. Eventually, she discovered that BCF is a place that could give her more opportunities to do things that she never dreamt she would do. One of the pioneers of the dragon boat team, Paddlers in the Pink, Priscilla is now the Team Captain. Her proudest moments were bringing her team to victory in various local and overseas competitions. Dragon-boating is a team sport which requires a lot of team building. This has really bonded the ladies.

“We are now all very close friends.”

Also wanting to help the community and share her experiences, she volunteered as a counsellor to lend a listening ear to those in need. Priscilla also joined BCF’s English support group as a member.

Priscilla has come a long way since joining BCF. Realizing the importance of her health, she now makes effort to keep fit regularly by joining yoga classes.

“I help people whenever I can, and have also become more forgiving.”

She has also learnt to prioritise her life better. Joining BCF has no doubt given her many invaluable friendships that would never be replaced, as well as many leadership opportunities for her. Whether it was considered as a blessing in disguise (or not), this unexpected stumble in her life has brought out the capabilities and courage that she never knew she has.