Cancer has become a common term in our conversations about the health of our loved ones.  Its familiarity is nothing short of offensive.  However, no matter how unwelcome, its prevalence is a reality.    

Each year the numbers of reported cases of cancer patients increases. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that, in the region, incidences of cancer will leap from approximately 111,933 cases in 2018 to 160,063 by 2035.

But, these are more than figures and statistics to many of us. Many of us have witnessed first-hand our loved ones’ gruelling battle with the disease.  Unfortunately, there have been those who have lost that battle.

However, many others, with medical guidance and the support of family and friends, have battled the disease and won.  They continue to stave off cancer’s life-threatening tentacles with daily lifestyle practice and sharing their story to uplift others.

Yello presents to you the incredible story of Dorothy Phillip. Dorothy shares about her arduous battle with the disease and her life in remission.

When were you diagnosed, and what was your diagnosis?

In 2008, I was diagnosed with Her2-positive breast cancer.

How was cancer detected initially?  What prompted you to get checked, or did you do regular check-ups?

I saw, what appeared to be, a mosquito bite on my breast.  After two weeks of it not disappearing, I visited the doctor and mentioned it to her. A few months prior, I had a clinical breast exam done by my doctor and thought I was okay, so at the time, cancer was the furthest thing from my mind.

How did you feel when you were first diagnosed?

Strangely, I did not feel anything.  So much so that the surgeon had to ask whether I understood what he said. All I wanted to know was: what next and where do we go from there on?

Did you have a support network?

Yes, I did.  It comprised my husband, sisters and later my classmate and a few friends.

Were there any national programmes or services offered to you that helped with the treatment process?

I received treatment in the USA, and while there were plenty of services offered to me, I opted to do it my way; with my family, and lots of meditation.  Treatment was long and tiring, so the comfort of being at home was always uplifting.

What was the biggest obstacle you faced during the treatment process, and how did you overcome it?

My biggest obstacle was getting Chemo brain right after being diagnosed with Bell’s palsy. I was able to overcome this obstacle by playing lots of memory card games. During that period, I stayed a lot indoors because of my inability to do simple things like counting money or speaking in full sentences—sentences that made sense.  I felt like I would be judged as being stupid or illiterate.

What did you do to distract yourself when you were going through treatment?

During my treatment, I prayed a lot.  I also read the bible and other spiritual books.  I also distracted myself with meditation.  I walked a lot and even started knitting.

Was hearing the stories of other cancer patients an encouragement for you?

During my treatment, I did not listen to other people’s stories. It was important for me to keep my life compact and focused on my recovery.

Where are you now in your journey with cancer?

Because of my Her2-positive breast cancer diagnosis, there wasn’t a maintenance drug that could have been given to me.  I still visit my oncologist every six months and have a PET-CT scan done every year.

How did you get involved in the group?

After my cancer treatment, I wanted to give back.  I wanted to send off the message that there is life after cancer, and we no longer have to die from it.  I felt that people needed to know that with early detection we can live long lives—so I started a cancer awareness group.

What is the focus of the Faces of Cancer?

Our primary focus is to see fewer people diagnosed with stage four cancer.  As such, every year we host at least five cancer screening health fairs in different communities throughout the island.  We offer free breast, cervical and prostate cancer screenings.  Along with those, we also have our free mammogram and ultrasound project for unemployed and underemployed at-risk patients.

What “words of wisdom” would you give any woman facing cancer or another life-threatening illness?

Cancer is a disease of the body, but I also believe, of the mind and spirit too.  Your best chance of beating it is your first chance, so educate yourself.  Also, talk with your doctor and stick to the agreed protocol. Lastly, pray, be positive and find time to be one with nature—meditate.   

Yello thanks Dorothy Phillip for sharing her story with us and wishes her continued good health.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer, or if you would like more information click here.

Source: BMC Cancer and International Agency for Research on Cancer (WHO).