World Cancer Day, observed on February 4, was launched to raise awareness and encourage prevention, early detection and treatment of the disease.
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Eskom resident Jackie Muller said she was in denial for almost two years before finally having a lump in her breast checked out. She would encourage anyone going through a similar situation to not delay and seek medical attention immediately.
“I was first diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer in 2021, two years after discovering a lump in my left breast. I have a family history of cancer. I was scared and in denial and really I was putting off getting tested until I needed it,” she said.
Mueller had been laid off a year earlier and could no longer afford to buy a private facility. She decided to make an appointment at CANSA Durban in Umbilo, where she was told she needed a mammogram.
“CANSA arranged with Reach For Recovery and my mammogram was completed. Money was so tight that I had to wait a month for a free mammogram. I had to join the public health system to receive treatment. I was sent to Albert Luthuli Hospital, where I feel I received better treatment than patients in private hospitals,” she said. said.
Muller was then diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer, requiring eight rounds of chemotherapy. She started her first job a few days after her 40th birthday.
“The nipple area on my left breast was sunken and the skin was loose. I was also tired. Fortunately, the cancer had not spread, and with the help of my family who supported me, So I started chemotherapy and was able to get through it,” she said.
After chemotherapy, the lump had shrunk significantly but had not gone away, so Muller was scheduled to have a mastectomy on her left breast and a breast reduction on her right, followed by radiation therapy in 2022.
“It was my first surgery in my life, so I was mentally depressed before the surgery, but I was able to get through it without any problems. What I am currently struggling with is finding a job and starting my home baking business. It's about finding a way to make it thrive. I still go for inspections every six months,” she said.
Muller added that the whole journey took a toll not only on her but also on her family.
“Very few people actually stop and think about the families and support systems of people with cancer when this is happening. Let me tell you, it's not easy for them. This experience has been very rewarding for my partner and I. It took a mental and physical toll on my children. Because I was frequently ill after chemotherapy and subsequent surgeries, I was unable to run my home baking business, which also affected my finances.” said Mueller.
“What I would say is to people to seek help as soon as possible, and for those of you who are checking on patients after chemotherapy or surgery, please also check on your family. . It's tough for them too,” she added.
For more information about cancer and early warning signs, visit www.cansa.org.za.
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