My Second Chance At Life
By: Anna Lim,
Breast Cancer Survivor and NCC volunteer
Although it’s been 14 years since I was diagnosed with breast cancer, the memories are still vivid in my mind. I was in my late thirties when I found a small lump on my breast; the thought that it might be cancerous never entered my mind. I thought I was young and healthy; breast cancer only occurred to women who were unhealthy or over 5o. How misinformed I was!
When the surgeon finally told me the biopsy result – “I’m sorry, you have breast cancer” – my reaction was one of total disbelief. It had to be a mistake! All forms of denial passed through my mind and lips: the results must be someone else’s. It’s a horrible mistake. When the truth finally sank in, I cried buckets.
I kept thinking, ”What have I done wrong to deserve such a punishment?” These words played over and over again in my head. The few days before my lumpectomy were a nightmare.
Waking up from surgery was the turning point in my life. I felt reborn. I wasn’t about to let cancer rob me of my life and happiness – I was going to beat this cancer and take control of my life. I had to face up to my illness and stop putting blame onto others and God. More importantly, I had to stop asking “Why Me?”. Picking myself up from the hold of self-pity and anger was not easy. The emotional roller coaster that I was forced on wouldn’t stop! Luckily, I had the support of my husband and family.
There is definitely life after cancer. It is not a death sentence. My fight against cancer actually increased my awareness of self and others, and gave me new meaning to life and death. The illness also turned out to be a blessing in disguise for me. It helped me to discover my inner strength and ability to be more creative and resourceful. I started to paint and participated in art exhibitions.
My message to all ladies is simply this: “Ignorance is not bliss. Lead a healthy lifestyle. Do regular breast self-examination and get any lumps promptly checked out. Follow your doctor’s recommendation for mammogram screening. Positive thinking is our best defence against breast cancer!”
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