AT just 33 years old, King was diagnosed with breast cancer for the first time.

“Cancer was the last thing I thought I’d ever face. In that moment, my mind immediately went to mortality. A cancer diagnosis is terrifying, it carries so much uncertainty. Most of the stories we hear are about death, and they echo loudly,” she said.

Years later, when cancer returned, the emotional toll was different but no less intense.

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“I felt a deep sense of disappointment. I thought reaching big milestones like five and 10 years cancer-free meant I was safe. But cancer is something that always lingers quietly at the back of your mind.”

This time, she didn’t need chemotherapy, but underwent a double mastectomy with reconstruction; a grueling physical process that she’s still recovering from. Through it all, Candice allowed herself to feel every emotion: the sadness, the fear, the grief.

“You don’t have to ‘stay positive’ all the time. You’re allowed to fall apart, to fear death, to cry or be angry. We often compare our suffering and downplay our pain but every experience matters,” she said.

Turning pain into purpose

Candice’s own experience inspired her to become a certified life coach, helping others navigate not just illness, but the often-overlooked emotional and mental recovery that follows.

“During treatment, you’re surrounded by doctors and loved ones, but after treatment ends, a whole new layer of healing begins. That part can feel very lonely. Now, I help women move through those challenges. It’s become my life’s purpose.”

Life after cancer

Candice says cancer changed her outlook completely.

“It may sound clichéd, but I really do try to live each day as if it were my last. I find joy in small things. Like a sunrise, a good cup of coffee, a laugh with my daughters.”

She also emphasises the importance of self-care, physically and emotionally.

The power of community

Support, both from family and fellow survivors, played a major role in King’s journey.

“Community is everything. Being part of a support group during my first diagnosis gave me strength. There’s nothing like connecting with people who are walking the same road.”

A call to action

King believes the world doesn’t necessarily need more awareness of breast cancer, but more action and understanding.

“Cancer doesn’t discriminate. It affects all ages, races, and genders. Men can get breast cancer too. Most importantly: early detection saves lives. Start with self-exams. Teach your daughters early. Don’t delay your screenings. If something feels off, get it checked.”

She also points out that breast cancer isn’t always a lump and can appear in different forms, so being educated on the signs is vital.

Through everything, Candice has held on to one thing: hope.

“In the beginning, hope meant possibility. During treatment, it meant endurance. After treatment, it became about reclaiming my life.”

Today, hope is a daily choice. “It’s not passive. Some days, it’s breathing through the fear. Other days, it’s resting without guilt. It’s about choosing to keep showing up, even when I don’t know what tomorrow will bring.”

“If you’re due for a screening, don’t wait. Early detection could save your life. And if you’re walking your own cancer journey, know this: you’re not alone, and hope is never far away,” said King.

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