This became extremely evident while fighting the biggest battle of my life. Being diagnosed with TNBC at the age of 34 was scary! I was diagnosed at a time when I was in great physical shape, I felt amazing, and then I felt the lump.

Many people view being checked out by a doctor as a weakness, I view it as a strength, a smart move. That smart move for me caught an aggressive cancer at an early stage, early enough to fight and overcome.

From the outset i chose to focus on what can be done to treat and heal instead of focusing on the “what if’s” and “buts”. I chose to fight, to do whatever I needed to do in order to survive, to have more time with my daughter, and my family. You very quickly learn what the real priorities are when your life is being threatened. I’ve learned that being sick doesn’t have to make you weak, you can grow in character, in love and patience. You also need to grow a thick skin as so many shots are being fired at you, physically and emotionally.

I had 15 rounds of chemo, lost my hair, was hospitalized numerous times with multiple infections, often unable to see my daughter during those times and sometimes unable to walk further than a meter on my own. Cancer treatment is hard, a bilateral mastectomy is hard, early menopause and not being able to have more children is a very bitter pill to swallow. But, I am stronger for all the battles I’ve fought and won.

I’m here today, healthy, with a second chance at life! Determination, faith and my loved ones carried me through the tough times.

I’d advise anyone going through a similar battle to focus on the end goal, as tough as it may seem. Advocate for yourself, put your health first. Get thoroughly checked even if you’re busy, make it a priority to ensure you’re okay.

When I look at myself in the mirror now and see all the scars I’ve gained I’m in awe of just how much my body has been able to withstand.