[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]It never occurred in the mind of Molly, 66, that she would one day be diagnosed with breast cancer. Molly leads a health-conscious lifestyle until this very day. She eats homecooked meals, heads to the gym two to three times a week and keeps herself active by having a healthy social life.
However, the truth is, breast cancer can affect anyone.
In 2009, at the age of 57, Molly was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer. Although it came as a shock to her, she remained positive about the situation from the very beginning and until this very day.
Also a mom to three young adults, Molly shares her story about being a breast cancer survivor.
1Twenty80: What lead to the diagnosis?
Molly: I would have a routine mammogram and pap smear check every two years. In the beginning of 2008, I felt a lump on my breast but I kept mum about it. As the year went by, the lump was still present and at the beginning of 2009, I paid a visit to my gynaecologist for a checkup. At that time, I had no idea that there was a breast specialist. So, I went for my routine mammogram and pap smear and when the results were out, it did not show any abnormalities. Hence, the gynaecologist told me there was nothing to worry about.
However, in August 2009, I felt a pinching pain on the upper side of my breast and the lump started to grow. I started to observe the growth but part of me was still in denial. So, finally, at the end of 2009, I went for a biopsy and my doctor told me that the lump was malignant.
1Twenty80: Did you have any suspicions prior to your diagnosis?
Molly: Honestly, I associated pain with an issue. Hence, although I felt a lump at my breast, there was no pain and so, I didn’t think it would be a health issue. Plus, I have never heard stories from breast cancer survivors before, about their experience. So, I wasn’t aware that the lump, although it was not painful, could be a warning sign.
1Twenty80: What was your next step after the diagnosis?
Molly: It was close to Christmas by then. So, I decided to celebrate Christmas first and then go for surgery. After surgery, I rested for a month and underwent four cycles of chemotherapy and 28 sessions of radiotherapy.
Prior to starting my treatment journey, I did a lot of research on the internet too, which helped me to understand the situation better. It’s important to take the journey one step at a time. You cannot rush through it as treatment is such a way whereby you will also need to have recovery periods in between your treatments.
1Twenty80: Can you share with us some of the challenges you faced during your treatment journey?
Molly: The most challenging obstacle during my treatment was a side effect that I had from my third and fourth cycle of chemotherapy. Hair loss was a sure thing but I also had an allergic reaction and my whole body would itch. Hence, I had to travel back to the hospital for an injection or medication to control the itching after treatment.
1Twenty80: What was your support system during this time?
Molly: My children have been so supportive. I also have friends and church members who have been praying for me and that helps me feel at peace.
After surgery, I went for a follow up and I asked my doctor if there were support groups available. She suggested the Breast Cancer Welfare Association (BCWA) and since then, I’ve joined them as a member. Today, I’ve also been trained to be part of the patient support group whereby I visit breast cancer patients and provide much-needed support. It’s all about a survivor supporting another survivor and it is through our first-hand experience, that we are able to help others.
1Twenty80: What is your advice to Malaysian women on breast cancer?
Molly: To all women in general, go for your annual checkups and health insurance is very important. You should also allocate some ‘me time’ for yourself, no matter how busy you are. For women who are worried that mammogram is painful, this procedure is no longer painful as compared to previous years. It’s important to be patient during the procedure. Breast cancer can affect anyone and it doesn’t discriminate.
As for my fellow breast cancer survivors, live happily. Also share and educate other women about your experience. Sharing is important.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
