Breast cancer can be an isolating time. You may feel alone and deserted from taking on this new condition, but it’s important to remember that you’re not the only one facing this cancer. Many men and women have survived, and you will too.
Today we hear from Elani who got diagnosed seven months ago:
Aofie: Thanks so much for joining us at Go For Bust today, Elani. I understand that this may be a difficult time for you. If you ever feel the need to step out of the room and take a few minutes, we will all fully understand.
Elani: Thank you for saying that and thank you for the opportunity. I might take you up on that offer for a breather later [she laughs, throwing back her head], but I think I’m ready now. If people learn more about the treatment, then perhaps they won’t be so afraid. I know I was.
A: Then let's get into it. How old were you when you discovered you have developed breast cancer?
E: You never ask a lady her age! Ok, maybe just this once. I was 46 and my first daughter, Noor, had headed off to university earlier that year- Law at Cambridge, if you can believe it. Looking back, I’m glad she had headed off. A girl should never have to see her mother in the miserable state that I was in. I’m luckier than other girls, you see. I can’t imagine ever getting diagnosed at an earlier age. My life has settled down and I have no studies to be interrupted.
A: Breast cancer identifiers are more commonly known now thanks to charities like Breast Cancer Research and the Pink Ribbon Foundation- which I can see pinned to your jumper.
E: Yes [she touches the ribbon proudly], Noor posted it to me when I told her about the cancer. Us girls have to stick together in times like these. I did identify my cancer through BCR’s information page. It was a small bump just under my left breast. It’s hard to believe something so tiny could have such a massive effect on my life. I wouldn’t say that my cancer defines me, no, definitely not, but that part of my history makes me who I am. Even though I wish it had never happened, it has made me stronger- well, mentally not physically. You can blame the chemo for the last part.
A: A large percentage of cancer survivors choose chemotherapy as part of their treatment plan. Can you give us an inside look on what that’s like?
E: Of course! I didn’t start on chemo- I took a swing at anti-oestrogen tablets. I think mine was called Letrozol? It definitely started with L. I was prescribed half a dozen other pills, but nothing seemed to stick. Reluctantly, I tried chemotherapy. It sent me into an early menopause and ruined my hair, but I came out alive and that’s all that matters.
A: Thank you so much for your time, Elani!
Interview edited for clarity
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