For Filipinos undergoing through cancer, it’s very important to know what steps they can take and learn from their fellow cancer patients and survivors to know that they’re not alone.
Abu Dhabi-based OFW Nanny Monteiro shares her inspiring story on how she was able to survive Breast Cancer, one of the leading causes of death for women around the world.
Since she arrived in Abu Dhabi in 1987, she has been blessed with a happy marriage and three daughters who are now all grown up. But her life had an unexpected turn in the year 2013. “It was in December 2013 that I discovered that I had a lump on my left breast went to the hospital and did biopsy. When my Doctor told me that I have stage 1 Breast Cancer, I was surprised as we have no family history, in my mind there were questions of how and why,” shares Monteiro.
Treatments and Emotional Support
Monteiro furthers that she had to undergo several treatments including lumpectomy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy the following month – January 2014 which for her, was one of the most difficult trials she had to face.
“During that times I experienced physical weakness and the loss of my hair. But it was in these moments that I realized that my family and friends had always been very supportive. l learned the importance of being humble and value life and closer to God by constantly praying and surrendering to Him,” said Monteiro.
Road to full recovery
Fast forward to today, Monteiro lives a happier and more meaningful life after battling cancer. “Fortunately, because the cancer was diagnosed early, I’m now cancer free. Now I’m enjoying life to the fullest spending my time going on vacation and loving myself more,” shares Monteiro.
She also adds that after she was diagnosed, she became more conscious of her diet – something which she continues to do to date: “Before I wasn’t watching what I was eating, but after that diagnosis, I became conscious of my food intake.”
Monteiro recommends fellow Filipinas to listen to their body and look after themselves more. “It is not selfish to do what is best for you. Always see the possibility not the problem,” said Monteiro.
