It all started in December 2012, when I discovered that l had a lump in my right breast. I was worried and alerted my husband.
Immediately, I went to a private hospital not too far from where I live. Unfortunately, I was referred to Badagry General Hospital which was further away from my residence and inconveniencing. I was eventually examined by a doctor who subsequently referred me to Lagos State University Teaching Hospital {LASUTH}.
I became agitated and frustrated with this bumpy ride so I discussed my fears with a friend of mine who directed me to another private hospital. At this stage, I was almost going to give up but I made up my mind not to be intimidated by this roller coaster ride.
I finally met with a doctor who examined me and was suspicious of the lump. In order to allay my fears, he went into a lengthy discussion with me by narrating his sister’s experience with breast cancer. His sister’s story was quite encouraging. At the end of our discussion and examination, he referred me to Dr. Oludara, a surgeon in LASUTH {Lagos State University Teaching Hospital} for further diagnosis. I was glad that I would be seen by an expert who would help me unravel this mystery.
My telephone conversation with Dr. Oludara put me at ease as he took his time to further educate me on the importance of early detection of breast cancer and the benefits of early treatment. Lumpectomy was done and the biopsy result was malignant stage 2 breast cancer.
That was how my breast cancer journey started! The feeling of sadness was an understatement because I had secretly been praying that the suspicion of the first doctor that examined me would be negative.
Eventually, a mastectomy was performed on my right breast in January 2013. I was later referred to Lagos University Teaching Hospital {LUTH} for six courses of chemotherapy from February to June. I “went to Heaven” and back during this period. February to March 2014, I had my Radiotherapy which I adjusted to better than chemotherapy.
After I had my last session of radiotherapy, a friend brought me to COPE in March 2014. Being among women who have walked on a similar road made me feel a lot better and stronger than I would be fine. Whenever we meet, we exchange notes and I feel confident again. I also make sure to follow up by going for a series of scans and X-rays when required as I am on a monthly bone injection. Whenever I am unable to access these treatments in Lagos State, I seek them out in other States.
l give God the glory that l am a 7-year survivor and still counting.
