I vividly remember the day, as if it was just yesterday. I was preparing to go for a vacation when I first detected the lump. My mind was filled with an array of conflicting thoughts, as I had to catch a flight in mere hours. Despite the excitement of my trip, the questions in my mind overshadowed my every thought.
Days later, I had the lump examined and a biopsy was performed. Fortunately, the results indicated it was benign, prompting a sigh of relief. However, I remained vigilant, regularly keeping tabs on it.
One year later, it seemed to have grown significantly in size, prompting me to seek another consultation. My doctor advised removing it; a biopsy would follow post operation. I was completely on board with the plan and underwent the surgery with a positive attitude. The biopsy results took a week to come in after the surgery. While on my way to work, I collected them. When my doctor stated the term “malignancy,” my mind struggled to comprehend. It took numerous follow-up questions for me to fully grasp that a portion of the tumour had shown malignancy.
With a heavy heart, I looked at my husband as my doctor outlined my treatment plan. Since my tumour was a rare type and it was caught early, it spared me from the need for chemotherapy. The plan was to remove the margins through a second surgery and undergo six weeks of radiation. The second surgery was a painful experience, as I had not anticipated needing another.
Nevertheless, I remained thankful for the early detection and my doctor’s treatment plan. Radiation started a few weeks later and felt relatively easy at first. However, the physical effects started cropping up a couple of weeks later.
Family and friends were a huge source of support during this time, and talking with fellow survivors and patients helped me adopt a positive outlook. It took several months to a year to heal from the exhaustion caused by radiation. To aid my recovery, I started practicing yoga, which significantly improved both my mind and body.
Undoubtedly, early detection is the key, and it saved my life whilst also making the journey somewhat bearable. I am grateful for the advancements in medical science. The numerous positive outcomes I have witnessed, I feel there is no shortage of hope today.
Written By:
Kalpana Biswal
Volunteer Emotional Counsellor
Indian Cancer Society
