Cancer survivor gives back to cancer patients
Cancer survivor Lucinda Carter said it was her positive attitude and her family support that got her through her cancer treatment.
After her battle with cervical cancer, Lucinda Carter decided to give back to those affected by cancer by becoming part of the team working at the Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa) Bedfordview, helping those in need of help with the Kindest Cut Project.
Lucinda went for a routine check up in 2005, and was diagnosed with cervical cancer.
“They told me after screening that they found a tumor, and later did a biopsy,” said Lucinda.
She said after the diagnosis she went for radiant and chemo treatments for seven weeks, Monday to Friday.
“Cervical cancer is when you have a tumor in your cervix. It is treatable, but it is important to detect it early,” said Lucinda.
Lucinda remembers her gran having cancer, but in those years it was rare for someone to have cancer, or to get a check up.
“When I was diagnosed, I could not believe it. I have always been healthy. I eat well, look after myself. It was a terrible shock, “said Lucinda.
Her positive attitude, and her family support, got her through this difficult phase.
“I had support system, my mother, my children, my church, were all there for me, every step of the way,” said Lucinda.
She said her oncologist introduced her to the team at Cansa, and stayed in one of their care centres during her cancer treatment.
“It was difficult to travel to and from the treatment centre. The home really helped me. I got meals, support, they were amazing,” said Lucinda.
Lucinda has been cancer-free for 10 years, and her natural progression was to be part of the solution by joining the place that helped her get through a difficult time.
“It was natural to begin my work with Cansa. Seeing young children affected by cancer also inspired me to get involved. I wanted to help other cancer survivors and patients,” said Lucinda.
“When it comes to children and cancer, it gets really emotional. We have our premises in Pretoria. I have to build myself up and remember why I am doing this. I just think about how much I would like the children to smile during this terrible time, and that motivates me. I tell them they are not alone,” said Lucinda.
Lucinda said families also get affected when loved ones are diagnosed with cancer, and need support.
“My son was only two years old when I was diagnosed. You need to think about the family and the support they need,” said Lucinda.
During the Breast Cancer Awareness Month, she said everyone should show their support.
She said it was important to get regular check ups to detect cancer early.
Lucinda said the basic symptoms to look out for are weight loss, loss of appetite and sores which are not healing.
