Facing breast cancer: a story of resilience and gratitude

'SUFFERING IS INEVITABLE'

- RAKHI BEEKRUM

MY HUSBAND'S nagging saved my life... literally.

While he’s not one to nag about anything, he was persistent about me doing my routine mammogram.

It wasn’t something I prioritised, as I don’t have a family history of breast cancer. There was no lump to be felt. Neither was there pain or discomfort. I was also feeling well.

So, the diagnosis came as a surprise. Even though I was required to have a biopsy, I was still feeling positive because I know enough people who had biopsies that were clear.

I remember the day that I found out my diagnosis so vividly. I had gone to work on June 18, 2024, after the long Youth Day weekend.

I had already had my biopsy the previous Friday, so I was expecting the result, which was to be sent to the GP who is at the same practice. I was also eager for the result, as I wanted to book a trip for my husband's milestone birthday.

When my receptionist came up to my office to say the doctor wanted to see me, I immediately knew. I was calm, as I usually am. I got to see the doctor to understand the result and find out the next steps.

Being a private person, I felt uncomfortable about seeing a surgeon who I knew. Something that the GP said to me really helped. He said I’d have to get over this shyness as the process was going to require me to be vulnerable.

My husband rushed over to see me as I continued consulting.

I was able to continue the rest of the day. The one thing that always made me emotional was sharing the news with those closest to me. The thought of my parents finding out was hard.