Cynthia started treatment for breast cancer on World Cancer Day three years ago.
When Cynthia finished treatment for breast cancer, she found strength and unity in new friends who had been through the same experience.
This World Cancer Day, exactly three years after she began treatment, Cynthia tells us why it’s so important to come together.
Debs, Caroline and Cynthia wearing their Unity Bands for World Cancer Day
How did you feel when you were diagnosed?
When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I felt very tearful.
At the beginning it was scary, because I didn’t know what to expect. I didn’t know how I was going to feel, although you’re told by your oncologist about the side effects. I think that’s what I was more scared of – aches and pains and being sick, not being able to eat, but I knew that I had to go through the treatment to make myself better.
It was frustrating because I’m a person that likes to be up and out doing things. I’m not someone who likes to sit still, so I was concerned about how tired I was. I then found out that it’s normal to feel tired after chemotherapy, but it’s a different type of tiredness.
It wasn’t just a normal fatigue, it was chemo and radiotherapy fatigue. I decided to be kinder to myself, and knew that when I felt that way it was my body saying to me, ‘Look Cynthia, you really have to rest.’
It was a relief when it was all over. But the thought of the cancer coming back in a different place is always at the back of my mind.
Where did you find support?
I found speaking to Breast Cancer Care helpful because I was able to express my emotions, feelings and concerns, and to feel relaxed.
I signed up to a Moving Forward course, and looked forward to learning how to look after yourself after treatment, as well as meeting other people that were under the same umbrella as me. I wanted to interact with other people who had experienced breast cancer, knowing that as a result of that they would understand me and I would understand them.
During the course, we were able to talk freely really, openly and honestly if we wanted to, and to people who understood.
What was it like to meet others with a similar experience?
I met a few women on the course, and became close to two brilliant women called Debs and Caroline. After the Moving Forward course we decided that we would definitely always be positive and make the most out of life. Caroline named us ‘Friends in the Boobettes’!
I think it’s important to interact with people that have had the same experience, as they understand. Meeting Debs and Caroline was a blessing and a relief: having two people in my life with whom I can confidently interact with about my breast cancer journey.
I don’t think I can go back to the old Cynthia. I have gained a lot of comfort, respect, joy and laughter from our new friendship. I admire the positiveness, the bravery and strength from both these women. They showed me how you can still have fun and laughter whilst going through a terrible disease.
What tip would you give to anyone going through breast cancer?
I believe coming together and uniting helps overcome frustration, stress and pressure. It will help with your struggles, because you will never be alone.
You may be going through treatment on your own, but don’t ever feel that you’re lonely. There’s always someone around – there’s Breast Cancer Care.
Breast Cancer Care has always been there when I’ve needed them. I think if I’d never heard of them, I wouldn’t be where I am now.
Wear your Unity Band® this World Cancer Day and help us be there for those affected by breast cancer, from day one.