Adera’s Breast Cancer Journey: Overcoming Stage 0 & Stage 1 Invasive Breast Cancer in Kenya

From Kenya to South Africa: A Brief Background

My name is Adera. I was born in Kenya but have lived in South Africa for over 20 years. My journey as a breast cancer survivor has been ongoing, with each step shaping who I am today.

The First Diagnosis: Stage 0 DCIS on My Left Breast

My breast cancer journey began when I was diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) at stage 0 in my left breast. This diagnosis was both shocking and life-altering. My treatment plan involved a skin-sparing mastectomy, a procedure that I hoped would mark the end of my battle with cancer.

Discovering the Peanut-Sized Lumps: A Turning Point

In November 2020, I felt two tiny lumps in my breast—each no larger than a peanut. Despite having regular three-month check-ups and mammogram screenings, this discovery left me deeply concerned.

Initial Misdiagnosis: Fat Necrosis or Something More?

After an examination, my breast surgeon diagnosed the lumps as fat necrosis, a benign condition often mistaken for something more serious. Despite the reassurance, my plastic surgeon remained concerned and insisted on biopsies after the lumps were removed.

The Critical Biopsies: Confirming Invasive Breast Cancer HR2+

The results of the biopsies confirmed my worst fears—I had stage 0 and stage 1 invasive breast cancer, HR2+. This diagnosis meant that my fight was far from over. My new treatment plan would include six cycles of chemotherapy, followed by radiation and anti-hormonal therapy. I started chemotherapy in January, determined to face whatever came next.

The Treatment Journey: Chemotherapy, Radiation, and Anti-Hormonal Therapy

The road ahead was daunting. Chemotherapy, radiation, and anti-hormonal therapy were all part of my treatment plan. Each step brought its own challenges, both physically and emotionally, but I knew I had to keep moving forward.

Throughout my treatment, I continued to model part-time. It wasn’t easy, as the treatment took a significant toll on my emotional well-being, mental health, and physical appearance. Yet, modeling gave me a sense of normalcy and a reason to push through the tough days.

The impact of cancer treatment on my mental and physical health was undeniable. There were days when I struggled to recognize myself in the mirror, both in body and spirit. But each challenge I faced made me stronger, helping me find new depths of resilience.

Finding Courage: Sharing My Story with Family and Friends

As I navigated my treatment, I found the courage to share my breast cancer journey with my family and friends. Opening up about my experiences wasn’t easy, but it was a crucial part of my healing process. Through sharing, I discovered a new purpose in educating and informing others about breast cancer.

My journey has inspired me to reach out to young women, especially young African women, to educate, inform, and encourage them. It’s important to me that they know their lives can and will continue—before, during, and after a breast cancer diagnosis.

To all the young women out there, particularly those in Africa, I want you to know that a breast cancer diagnosis is not the end. Your life, your dreams, and your aspirations don’t have to be put on hold. Yes, the journey is tough, but you are tougher. With resilience, support, and the right care, you can continue to live a full and meaningful life.

This blog post reflects the courage and determination that have carried me through my breast cancer journey. By sharing my story, I hope to inspire others to find their own strength and continue fighting, no matter the odds.

A Message from Learn Look Locate

At Learn Look Locate, Adera’s courageous battle against breast cancer touches our hearts deeply. We are honored to share her story, offering a platform for survivors to come together, learn, and find solace in one another’s experiences. Through our diverse range of resources including Adera’s survivor narrative, our mission is to empower individuals at every phase of their cancer journey. We proudly stand by Adera’s and all those who demonstrate remarkable courage, celebrating their strength and reminding the world that hope shines brightest, even amidst life’s greatest trials.