Dhara Patel 

I had actually felt a bulge/ small swelling on my left breast a few months ago however i ignored it thinking it was a water bag swelling just before my monthly.
 

One fine day, when i went to collect my blood reports from the doctor as usual ( have to get my tests done every 6 months due to hypothyroid) , i just remembered to tell the doctor to check the bulge that i could feel.

I was advised to do my mammogram and ultrasound and a biopsy thereon was requested where i had my doubts that something was not right.

 

It was the day Black Friday of 2020, where i was advised that i had breast cancer. Good thing - it was Stage 1, Grade 1 so could be cured by surgery only. I was devastated with the ‘C’ word itself and so were the other around me (my husband and my daughter)

I was totally shattered but at the back of my mind I knew i had to be strong to keep those around me strong.

My husband and daughter were my biggest supports and lifelines as i was unable to inform my parents who were back in India. There was no travel due to COVID hence i think it was a blessing in a way for me.

 

I went through first surgery on 15 Dec 2020 and was advised it was over. However with the report from the surgery, a few traces were found deep inside hence i went through another surgery on 21 Jan 2021.

Everything should have seemed perfect after that but was recommended a Chemo during my consultation with the doctor in Feb 2021.

 

Chemo was my choice due to my age. I went through 4 sessions but started losing my hair after the first one. My daughter gave me the strength to shave off completely since i had another 3 more to go.

Good thing was that i had been working all through which kept me busy and my mind diverted.

 

I had a few days of ups and downs but was able to overcome it with the support from my family & friends, There was a curfew due to COVID being at its peak so was unable to meet anyone. (again in my favour)

 

Then i was to go through radiotherapy (19 sessions). At first it was an easy one after going through Chemo. 25th June was my last session but after that my skin had completely charred and i was in a lot of pain.

 

But constant moisturising and looking after that part, i was getting better again.

 

It was a difficult journey but i guess i was lucky to get it through so quickly.