Renee Singh (Breast Cancer Survivor)

Renee Singh was diagnosed with stage 2 Breast Cancer in the year 2017. She underwent a left breast mastectomy, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy as a part of the treatment. Her children and her husband were her primary emotional support. Renee says, "Awareness is a must. It is important that caregivers are aware of Do's and Don'ts as the cancer journey is unpredictable".

How it all began 

My breast cancer journey started in February 2017. I was 37 years old when my husband discovered a lump in my left breast. My second-born son encouraged me to go and have it checked at a local hospital. I underwent a scan which showed signs of an abnormal mass. In May 2017, after a biopsy, my diagnosis was confirmed, I had Stage 2 lobular carcinoma. 

Met with Specialist 

I met with a breast specialist and she educated me on my diagnosis and the plan moving forward. I was to have a left mastectomy as the cancer was aggressive. The surgical team did an exceptional job, I came out of theatre feeling more vibrant and having more hope than ever before. However, the drains after surgery were challenging. 

Treatment and its side effects 

I was referred to an oncologist and my chemotherapy started in August. chemotherapy is one of the hardest challenges a cancer patient can go through. The last of my treatment consisted of 31 consecutive days of radiation. Unfortunately, I was hospitalized for two weeks before proceeding further with radiation. It was thought that 

I had swelling of the brain. I was put on very high doses of steroids. Once I was discharged from the hospital, I continued with radiation. I woke up at 2 am to get ready to leave home at 4:30 am to have my daily radiation doses. 

Chemotherapy and its side effects 

Chemotherapy is one of the hardest challenges a cancer patient can go through. When I was administered chemotherapy, I had a tingling feeling throughout my body. I had severe nausea. I was always sick. I was fussy about the smell. I was not able to tolerate anything. The side effects of chemotherapy used to continue for five days after that condition stabilized. 

Cannabis oil for pain management

Cannabis oil was very helpful in pain management and inducing good sleep. I was not able to sleep due to pain and stress. I used cannabis oil and it helped in different ways. 

Emotional wellbeing 

Breakdown is human. Cancer is such a horrifying word that it can create fear in anybody's mind. I had a breakdown once. But then I controlled myself. I promised to myself that no matter how sick I felt I would not give up. Instead, I would fight harder every second I am alive. I would not accept defeat in this cancer battle. My faith was ever-growing; it carried me through my treatments. 

My family was my source of inspiration 

My family was my source of inspiration. My three kids and husband gave me all the love, time, and support I needed at this time. They gave me extra strength to fight the battle even harder than before. My family became stronger because I chose to stay positive and never give up. I promised myself that no matter the challenges I had to face in this battle, I wouldn't back down. Instead, I would fight like a true warrior, becoming victorious on the battlefield. My positivity, faith, and never-give-up attitude earned me a survivor's crown today.

Life after cancer 

Today I dedicate all my time, love, and support to newly diagnosed patients. I strongly believe that your mental state of mind is obligated to stay positive throughout your cancer journey. Cancer isn't a death sentence. So, you need to put your armor on and fight. You are never alone in this battle. There is a lot of love and support out there.

I have had the honor of being invited to various breast cancer awareness functions where I got to mingle with other survivors, share my story as well as encourage them. I've loved every minute of it!

Message for others 

As long as we are alive, we must fight harder to overcome the storm. Live in every second, minute, and moment in life.