In March 2021, I noticed something unusual. There was discharge coming from my left nipple, sometimes even mixed with blood. At first, I tried to ignore it. I convinced myself it was nothing serious and hoped it would disappear on its own. Deep inside, however, I was afraid. As months passed, the symptoms became more frequent, and anxiety slowly took over my thoughts.
In November 2023, I finally underwent surgery in Malaysia to remove what was believed to be a cyst in my left breast. After the operation, my life changed completely. The pathology results revealed that I had invasive breast cancer, and it had already spread to my lymph nodes. Hearing those words felt like the world had stopped. I remember asking myself over and over again, “Why is this happening to me?” I felt hopeless, terrified, and emotionally exhausted.
The doctors suggested another surgery, but I was overwhelmed and unsure about what to do next. For some time, I isolated myself in sadness and fear. I could not stop thinking about death, my family, and the dreams I had not yet achieved. Even so, a small part of me refused to give up completely. I knew I had to keep fighting.
Everything began to change when my family and friends encouraged me to search for another treatment option. A close friend told me about Modern Cancer Hospital Guangzhou and shared stories about patients who had received minimally invasive treatment there. That recommendation gave me hope for the first time in months.
Through the hospital’s Jakarta office, I had an online consultation with the doctors in Guangzhou. They answered my questions patiently and carefully explained my condition. For the first time since my diagnosis, I felt supported and understood. In December 2023, I traveled to Guangzhou to begin treatment.
After a full medical examination, the doctors confirmed that I had stage IIIA invasive ductal carcinoma with lymph node involvement. Although hearing the diagnosis again frightened me, the medical team remained calm and encouraging. They explained that interventional therapy could precisely target the tumor while minimizing side effects.
I underwent my first interventional treatment shortly after arriving. The procedure only lasted around thirty minutes. To my surprise, I was able to walk the next day without severe side effects like nausea or vomiting. The nurses and doctors treated me with kindness and patience throughout the process. Even simple things, such as their reassuring smiles and gentle care, gave me strength.
During my stay, I also met many other international patients, especially fellow Indonesians. We shared stories, encouraged one another, and spent time together in the hospital garden. Those moments reminded me that I was not fighting alone.
After several treatments, I finally received the news I had been praying for: the remaining tumor and suspicious lymph nodes had disappeared. I could not hold back my tears. It felt as if I had been given a second chance at life.
Today, I have returned to my normal activities and can enjoy life again. Looking back, I realize that cancer tested not only my body but also my spirit. The journey was painful and frightening, but it also taught me courage, gratitude, and hope.
To anyone facing cancer right now, I want to say this: never lose hope. Fear is natural, but giving up is not the answer. With the support of loved ones, proper treatment, and a strong heart, there is always a reason to keep fighting.