
Shaimaa, Egypt
Six years prior to my cancer journey, while breastfeeding, I noticed a swollen area in my breast. I mentioned it to my mother, who suggested it might be a build-up of milk causing the swelling. I didn't pay much attention to it and completely forgot about it.
Years later, I coincidentally discovered a hard, unmovable lump in my breast. I told my husband, who was worried and insisted I should get it checked to ensure everything was alright. I saw a doctor who, after examining me, reassured me that there was no need to worry, that it was just a milk build-up and nothing to be concerned about. He advised me to have it checked every three months, as these build-ups can sometimes develop into tumors.
A friend, upon hearing my concerns, suggested I get a check-up at Baheya Hospitals and Centers for a definitive diagnosis. I hadn't heard of Baheya before, but I followed her advice and scheduled an appointment.
At the appointment, the doctor who examined me said I needed tests, including an ultrasound and a biopsy, to determine the nature of the lump. Following the tests, I received the devastating news: stage three breast cancer. I was completely shocked and speechless.
I called my husband and told him the news. He came immediately and tried to comfort and calm me down so I could process the information. I told him I wasn't afraid and that I accepted God's will. My main concern at that moment was my mother, as I was worried about how she would take the news. When I visited her and she asked about the results, I told her they weren't back yet and that they had only done an ECG. She replied, "If they did that, it means something is wrong, and you're hiding it from me." I had no choice but to tell her and my siblings the truth. I left immediately afterwards, as I couldn't face any of them.
My treatment began with chemotherapy, which, unfortunately, my body couldn't tolerate beyond four sessions. I had to stop because it caused breathing problems. Throughout the chemotherapy, I remained calm, patient, and strong, and I gave hope and positive energy to those around me, as they were all saddened by my illness and couldn't accept that I was sick. Just hearing my cheerful voice on the phone would strengthen them and give them hope that I would recover and get better. Even when my hair started falling out, I would say, "God, I am content with your will, and I will remain patient and enduring."
Throughout my treatment, my husband provided invaluable support, including helping with household chores, which was especially crucial given the young age of our children. I am grateful that my treatment progressed smoothly. I am now in the hormonal treatment phase and attend psychological support sessions at Baheya, which have helped me accept myself and get rid of the negative emotions inside me and become a better person.