Retired nurse shares her experience with breast cancer

Kwa-Thema – As Breast Cancer Awareness Month is concluded, cancer survivor Mapule Shabangu (66) is of the sentiment that much more awareness is still needed.
The retired nurse was diagnosed with cancer in 2010.
Since then, she has undergone a mastectomy (the removal of a breast due to cancer cells), chemotherapy, radiation and hormone replacement therapy.
She said finding out she had cancer was the biggest shock of her life.

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“It was one random day when I started sweating, but at the time I thought maybe my high blood pressure was acting up.
“Little I did I know I was in for the biggest surprise of my life.
“When the doctor told me the news, I just could not believe it,” she said.
Shabangu explained even though she has a medical background, fear, disbelief and denial grappled her.
She said early detection saved her life.
“Catching it at an early stage played a huge role in my recovery.
“I was able to see specialists and receive counselling,” she said.
According to Shabangu, having access to information plays a big part in fighting the illness.

Also read: Breast cancer awareness

“Awareness campaigns can teach people a lot more about cancer.
“Through such events, people get to learn more about various cancers, side-effects of each and different types of treatment available.
“Also, hearing other survivors share their stories gives hope to those who are still battling with the disease.
“It is also how support groups are formed,” she explained.
She urged people to continue to create awareness and teach each other about cancer within their communities.

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