She is now in remission and is an ambassador for Be Cancer Aware. As October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Arumugam writes:
Without support I would have stopped breathing! But there is only so much help that you can request from friends and family. And luckily I have incredible friends who kept me sane through all the drama.
There were days when I thought I was not going to survive the chemo, but there were also good days too. My little angel tried, and still tries, to do everything she can for me. She used to make me a chemo care package that I was only allowed to open when I got to the hospital. She would help me bath when I couldn’t stand or support myself. She would have my pyjamas laid out for me and help me dress. Most importantly, when I did break down and came close to giving up, she held my hand and assured me that I would make it. After the chemo, a bilateral mastectomy and radiation in July 2012, I’m glad the worst is behind me. If it doesn’t work out then I’m fine with that as my breasts did not make me a woman… they just helped make my clothes fit better.
I am still trying to find that perfect balance where I know who I am after cancer and where I am headed. I survived cancer because I have someone special to live for. My daughter’s touch and smile were my most significant treatments, far outreaching the impact of any drugs.
Details: www.becanceraware.co.za
