Aminath Rifa, Maldives
My journey with cancer began long before my own diagnosis. In 2018, I put my studies and career on hold to support my mother through her first and second battles with cervical cancer. In June 2024, just two months after my mother was declared cancer-free, I discovered a lump in my left breast. After an agonizing three-day wait for biopsy results, I met with my mother's oncologist, Dr. Amru, who confirmed the diagnosis. Shortly after, I traveled to Bangalore for a PET-CT scan, where it was determined I would need eight cycles of chemotherapy, followed by surgery and radiation.
The transition from being a caregiver to becoming the patient was deeply humbling and emotionally taxing. My biggest challenge was staying strong for my mother while fighting my own battle; she was devastated by my diagnosis, and I had to be my own light while also being a source of strength for her. Additionally, toward the end of my own treatment, my mother was diagnosed for the third time. Being unable to be by her side during her treatment -as my father took on the role of caregiver in India--was devastating for me.
My support system was my lifeline. My husband remained incredibly positive, keeping a "contagious smile" on his face even during the roughest days. My mother cared for me as much as she could, and being able to receive treatment at Tree Top Hospital in the Maldives allowed me to stay near my loved ones and continue working. Recently, joining the Cancer Society Group (CSG) has been transformative; the information and community support I found there provided me with insights I hadn't encountered anywhere else.
The healthcare journey was a collaborative effort between institutions in India and the Maldives. I appreciated the compassion of doctors like Dr. Amru, who gave me the space to grieve when I first heard the news. Choosing to have my chemotherapy at Tree Top Hospital allowed for a better quality of life, as it enabled me to maintain my routine and stay connected to my community. The system provided a pathway for diagnosis in one country and accessible treatment in another, which helped me balance my health needs with my personal life.
It is all about your mindset and prayer. I promised myself I would keep living my life during the process--going to work, seeing friends, and traveling-_rather than letting the illness define me. It is okay to have tough days and "let it out, " but try not to stay in that dark place for too long. Learn to love yourself, whether you are well or "battered and bruised." Most importantly, remember: "Everything will be ok in the end, and if it's not ok, it's not the end.