Page 63 - ACCF - Stories of Resilience

area where the Center’s Community Outreach Program (COP) team was stationed. They were tasked with guiding patients
like me through the process, answering questions, and alleviating fears. I sat down with Mrs. Anita, a warm and composed
counselor, who immediately sensed my anxiety.

“Reema, I can see you’re scared,” she said softly, her kind eyes meeting mine. “It’s normal to feel this way, but remember, early
detection saves lives. Some tests were recommended–a mammogram and possibly a biopsy – will give us clarity. If there’s
something to address, we’ll do it together. If not, you’ll leave with peace of mind.”

I broke down in tears. “But what if it’s cancer? I have two kids. My family depends on me. What will they do without me?”
Mrs. Anita placed her hand on mine. “Reema, let me tell you a story. A woman named Sunita came to us last year with similar
fears. She, too, found a lump. She was terrified but she followed through with the tests. It turned out to be early-stage cancer.
With treatment, she’s now healthy, working and raising her family. The key is taking action. Fear is normal but do not let it
stop you from taking care of yourself.”

Her words calmed me but doubt still lingered. The COP team introduced me to a group of volunteers – women who had once
been patients. Their stories were inspiring. They spoke of overcoming fear, enduring treatment and emerging stronger. Their
resilience sparked a glimmer of hope in me.

The team explained every step of the diagnostic process, addressing my fears patiently. They promised to stay by my side
throughout. Encouraged, I agreed to undergo the mammogram and biopsy at the Cancer Center.

The days leading up to the tests were agonizing. I couldn’t sleep, eat or focus. Arun noticed my distress and I finally confided in
him. He was shaken but supportive. “ Reema ,whatever it is, we’ll face it together. You’re not alone,” he said, holding my hand.

The tests were conducted swiftly, with the COP team constantly reassuring me. Waiting for the results felt like an eternity. I
oscillated between hope and despair, imagining the worst but clinging to the possibility that it was nothing serious.
When the results came Dr. Roy, the oncologist, gently informed me that the lump was malignant. I had breast cancer but it

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