In 2016, Williams received the news that she had breast cancer. It was a moment that shattered her world, but only briefly.

“It felt like being sentenced for a crime I had never committed. I broke down, cried, and prayed. But within moments, I decided that cancer would not defeat me,” she said.

Just two days earlier, her first grandchild had been born; a moment of joy that became the fuel for her fight.

“I was determined to see her turn 21. That was the last time I allowed myself to feel sorry for myself. From then on, I faced the journey head-on with a positive mindset.”

Also read: A journey of survival, hope for uMhlanga life cancer warrior

Williams’ treatment spanned two years and included chemotherapy, radiation, a lumpectomy, and ongoing hormone-blocking medication. Through it all, she maintained her role as a business owner, conscious of the people who relied on her.

“I had staff to support and clients who depended on me. That responsibility gave me strength. I had a dread disease policy, family support, and an incredible friend who stayed with me every weekend during those early chemo sessions.”

Williams also found unexpected community and encouragement through the women she met at the oncology centre. They became her “cancer sisters”.

“We laughed, we cried, and we lifted each other up. That support was everything.”

Determined to take control of her health, Williams pursued a holistic approach alongside traditional treatment. She consulted a dietician and a nutritionist, changed her eating habits, explored cannabis as a supportive treatment (with her oncologist’s guidance), and even had DNA testing to understand the root cause of her hormone-based cancer.

“Of the 12 women undergoing treatment at the time, I was the only one using cannabis and the only one who didn’t experience nausea or fatigue. I’d go for chemo and return to work the next day.”

Her commitment to knowledge, clean eating (especially avoiding hormone-treated meat), and listening to her body became her way of regaining control.

The sweet sound of remission

After two long years, Williams heard the words every cancer warrior hopes to hear: in remission.

“It was like music to my ears. A new lease on life. It reaffirmed my faith and filled me with an even greater appreciation for every single day.”

Now seven years in remission, Williams lives each day intentionally. From daily walks to ticking off her bucket list, she embraces life with passion and purpose.

“Yes, I think about the cancer coming back. But I’ve learnt not to dwell on fear. I focus on living.”

To others facing a breast cancer diagnosis, Williams offers heartfelt and practical advice.

“Stay positive. Do your research. Seek multiple medical opinions. I was told by three doctors to have a mastectomy, but a fourth opinion led me to a less invasive lumpectomy. It worked and my breast was preserved.”

“Early detection is everything. I was diagnosed at stage one. A colleague of mine, diagnosed at the same time, delayed treatment for a holiday. By the time she returned, her cancer had progressed to stage four. Don’t wait.”

Looking back, Williams says her experience reshaped everything – her priorities, her faith, and her purpose.

“I live more mindfully now. I’ve learnt to show love daily, to express gratitude, and to honour my health. My journey gave me profound inner strength. And through it all, I never stopped talking to God. I walked with Him every step of the way. You can fight this. You can survive it. And you can come out stronger on the other side.”

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