Early detection saves lives

A woman shared her experience of accompanying her mother, Susana, through a breast cancer diagnosis and recovery. The cancer was found at stage 2, which is not the most severe stage, as breast cancer is classified from stage 0 to stage 4, with stage 4 meaning the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

Delayed diagnosis and the importance of a biopsy

The initial diagnosis involved incorrect assumptions and a lack of a biopsy, which delayed treatment. The writer learned that one should not dismiss a lump as simply a "small fat ball" and should consult an oncologist directly for proper evaluation.

Chemotherapy with humor and hope

The mother underwent chemotherapy, a treatment that involves using drugs to kill cancer cells. The family approached this difficult time with a mix of humor and tears, as her mother decided to shave her head. To support her, the writer and her sister bought her a wig named Lucy, which the mother wore throughout treatment.

Successful treatment and recovery

After several weeks of chemotherapy, the tumor regressed by 90%, allowing for surgery where the tumor was removed, and her mother kept her breast. The writer notes that her mother had previously shared a myth about the Amazons amputating one breast to handle the bow, and her mother, like the mythical Amazons, kept her breast.

Recovery and advocacy

Following surgery, the mother underwent radiotherapy, a treatment that uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. After this, her hair grew back, and she regained her health and smile. The mother now volunteers at the CIMA Foundation in Mexico, where she raises awareness about the importance of early detection. The wig, Lucy, was later given to another patient in need.

Emotional and practical support

The writer emphasizes the importance of emotional support for close relatives of breast cancer patients, as they also suffer through the experience. She also highlights the importance of self-examination, mammograms starting at age 40, and regular visits to the gynecologist.

Prevention and awareness

The writer recommends that in the face of any anomaly, the first step is to have a mammogram to rule out any risk and to consult an oncologist and undergo a biopsy to determine if the tumor is benign or malignant. The most important thing is not to be afraid and to detect a tumor in time.