Cancer is not a death sentence – Breast cancer survivor
Nene Mokgetlhe underwent radiation therapy, which also came with side effects and has now been in remission for 13 years and her life has completely changed.
POLOKWANE – October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month in South Africa.
Nene Mokgetlhe is a breast cancer survivor who said she found her purpose in the most painful period in her life.
She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010 after feeling a small lump in her breast.
The single mother of two explained that at first, her gynaecologist thought that it was mammary glands since she was breastfeeding at the time. She eventually went for a mammogram which suggested the possibility of a cancerous lump.
“Like many women, I did not think I would get cancer. The surgeon who removed the lump advised that should it turn out that the lump is malignant, he was going to remove the entire breast. I agreed in the hope that it would be benign. Unfortunately, this is not how it turned out.”
Mokgetlhe said the mastectomy left her broken. “At the age of 35, I had lost a feminine part of my body which made my question myself as a woman.”
She added that the emotional pain was far worse than the physical. She questioned whether she was still woman enough, and often grappled with the fear of losing the battle and leaving behind her young children.
She also underwent chemotherapy of which the side effects included fatigue, a loss of appetite, nausea, bowel issues, hair loss, weight loss and mouth sores.
“Dark as I am, I became even darker, I had spots on my tongue, my nails turned black and every hair follicle on my body fell off. It wasn’t easy but it was worth it,” she said.
After chemotherapy, she underwent radiation therapy, which also came with side effects. She has now been in remission for 13 years and her life has completely changed.
“I saw the power of God. He gave me a second chance which really strengthened my faith. I respect and appreciate life and remain grateful for the gift of life. I accept myself for who I am before I can be accepted by others, and love wholeheartedly while I still can. I also don’t worry much about tomorrow for tomorrow may never come,” she said.
Through the journey, she said she learned that cancer is not a death sentence.
“It is incurable, but it’s manageable if detected early.”
She advises anybody who is diagnosed to follow procedures, take the medication prescribed and have faith.
Mokgetlhe thanked her family, her partner, pastors and colleagues who supported her throughout her journey. You can interact with her on Instagram.
