Renée Ney, South Africa

Cancer turned my World upside down almost 8 years ago. I was diagnosed with a type of Breast Cancer.  Invasive Lobular Carcinoma in 2017. I had surgery of my left breast which is called a Nipple Sparing Mysectomy. My treatments included Chemotherapy and Radiation. I am more health conscious since I have become diagnosed with this disease. 

I feel Chemotherapy and Radiation still has a lasting side effect toll on my body. 

As a Survivor, I matter and I am more then the disease and diagnosis. I come from a family history both sides of being diagnosed with Cancer. I was at my lowest in treatment days, battling each day for my body to stabilise. 

With the support of family, health care workers and support group, it helped me gain strength, resilience and courage to keep going. 

What I learnt in my journey was my voice made a difference.  To always communicate and raise my concerns as to how I was feeling. Mental health challenges to physical body challenges. Not everyone is fully educated in this disease. Different resources to your journey is very vital. 

As the years progress, each year becomes harder, as we all are different in this journey but in survivorship experience similar challenges.

Today as a Breast Cancer Survivor, the Founder of Warriors With A Purpose and A Globally recognized organization member. Union For International Cancer Control.  I still believe that our people matter in this disease and how they are treated throughout this journey. People  centered care, focusing on the needs of each individual receiving care. The support is super beneficial from the onset of diagnosis. Various resources matter to our people's concerns raised in the Diagnosis.Our people are important in this disease. Our people's lived experience also matters. Early Detection Saves Lives. Cancer is Real and can effect anyone.