Last day of Chemo in Fall 2023 in the backyard.
By Dawn Bouapha
In 2023, as we were all just getting over the pandemic, I thought this would be the year we could start living somewhat normal lives again.
Just as life was beginning to return to normal after the pandemic, my world was turned upside down by a single, unexpected moment. One night in 2022, before bed, I discovered a small lump in my breast, setting off a chain of events I never could have anticipated.
On a regular morning in January 2023, just before my workday started, I was faced with the unsuspecting, and devastating news of a triple-negative breast cancer diagnosis.
For years I was clinically healthy, had no family history of breast cancer or any form of cancer, and I was feeling in the prime of my life – the news of my diagnosis hit me like a sudden storm. I never expected to face such a daunting challenge.
Despite knowing individuals who have battled cancer and being aware of its prevalence through mainstream media, the true weight of the term “cancer” only becomes fully apparent when you find yourself on the receiving end of a diagnosis.
Understanding my treatment options within the public healthcare system was overwhelming. The more I learned about breast cancer and the available treatments, the more I realized the critical importance of awareness and early detection.
As I navigated my diagnosis, I learned that “1 in 8 Canadian women is expected to develop breast cancer during her lifetime, and that breast cancer is now the leading cause of cancer death among women aged 30-49”. This statistic hit home, underscoring the urgency of early detection and the reality faced by so many women like me. Studies also reveal a rising incidence of breast cancer in younger women, making proactive screening essential.
Breast cancer is also the second most common cancer in Canada, affecting millions of lives. According to the WHO (World Health Organization), “in 2022 alone, there were 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer globally, resulting in 670,000 deaths”. Although there is still a lot more to be done, this year there has been a pivotal change in Ontario’s healthcare policy, allowing women to undergo breast cancer screening earlier from 50 to 40 years of age.
Throughout my journey, I strive to stay positive, while leaning heavily on the support of my community. From other breast cancer thrivers, medical teams, and the kindness of friends and family, to the generosity of strangers, their love has been a constant source of strength during my darkest days. I also couldn’t have gotten through the past year without the unwavering support from my husband, my caregiver, who was always by my side at every treatment and hospital visit.
Not every breast cancer is the same and each treatment is unique. By sharing my story, I hope to raise awareness for early breast cancer detection and to encourage others to seek out information and be an advocate for their health.
When I started sharing my story with others, I discovered almost everyone I know has been impacted by this disease either directly or indirectly. Support groups, counselling services, and programs provided me with the tools I needed to navigate the complexities of my diagnosis and treatment.
I am still in recovery from the numerous treatments over the past year which included six months of systemic chemotherapy, multiple surgeries, and over a month of daily radiation.
Despite the challenges, I remain determined and positive. Some days are tougher than others, but I refuse to let cancer define me. Remember, early detection is key. Advocate for yourself, know your body, and support each other.
Together, we can face any storm.