Reda, Egypt

In March 2023, I faced the most significant shock of my life when I discovered I had breast cancer. At that time, I had felt a lump in my breast, but I did not pay much attention to it and casually mentioned it to my daughter. She became worried and told me I needed to get it checked.

Initially, I went to the Family Planning Association, which referred me to a specialized center. There, I underwent a mammogram, and afterwards, they requested a biopsy.

My daughters objected at that time and told me, "Since there is a suspicion, it is best that you go to Baheya Hospitals and Centers to complete the rest of the examinations." I indeed scheduled an appointment and went for the examination, undergoing all the necessary tests. I was informed that they would contact me when the test results were available to return and receive them.

When I went to Baheya again and learned the results, the breast cancer diagnosis sent me into complete shock. I sat there crying, unable to speak or understand what they were telling me. The doctor reassured me, calmed my fears, and clearly explained my diagnosis. All I could think about was my sister, who had passed away from the same disease a short time ago.

The shock was greater than anyone could imagine, to the point that I did not understand the doctor's words, and I kept going back to her to repeat her words again because I could not grasp the idea of my illness.

Sadly, my husband offered no support during this difficult time. He made no attempt to comfort me in my shock or be there for me, but I found support and solace in my four daughters and their husbands.

My treatment journey began with a lumpectomy of the right breast, followed by five sessions of chemotherapy. During this period, I began to accept my fate, and I developed patience, endurance, and contentment with my destiny. Afterwards, I began radiotherapy.

The illness changed many things about me and made me more patient and stronger. It also introduced me to Baheya, where I formed friendships with fellow fighters, and I began attending psychological support sessions through which we express our feelings and can deal positively with our illness.

I advise every woman to become familiar with her body and perform self-examination regularly to reassure herself because most cases that are difficult to treat are due to the woman's neglect of the importance of early detection and self-examination.