Polokwane mother’s third cancer battle with an unshakable spirit

Quick read

• Cynthia Erasmus (42) from Polokwane is facing cancer for the third time – first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015.

• After beating it twice, she was diagnosed with cervical cancer in early 2025.

• She describes her current treatment as extremely painful and emotionally draining.

• Cynthia relies on strong family and friend support, but faces rising medical costs, including R160 000 for radiation.

• She urges women to get regular checkups and says: “There is always hope.”

Full story 

POLOKWANE –  To be diagnosed with cancer once is devastating, but to face the diagnosis three times would break even the strongest spirit. For 42-year-old Cynthia Erasmus, originally from Polokwane and a mother to an 18-year-old son, this has been her reality.

Cynthia was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015. The diagnosis led to a double mastectomy, 13 sessions of chemotherapy, and a month of radiation therapy.

“When I first got the news, I was devastated. This happens to other people, not to me. I just couldn’t believe it – I thought my life had come to an end.”

After her diagnosis in Polokwane, Cynthia sought a second opinion and received treatment at a specialised breast care centre in Johannesburg. Her treatment spanned two years and concluded in late 2017.

“When I was told I had beaten the cancer, I was ecstatic. I felt free. There were no more signs of the disease.”

But in 2023, Cynthia’s world was rocked again.

Despite her mastectomy, she discovered another painful lump in her breast. Tests confirmed a recurrence of breast cancer. She underwent eight more rounds of chemotherapy.

Then, in November 2024, she experienced severe pain while using the bathroom. Initially diagnosed and treated for a urinary infection, her condition didn’t improve.

Further testing, including a biopsy, revealed the news: she had developed cervical cancer, her third diagnosis.

“I received the news in February, and it was pure shock and horror. I couldn’t believe it. I was already thin from the previous chemo, and one of the symptoms was unexplained weight loss. I want to encourage all women to go for regular checkups.” Cynthia describes the cervical cancer treatment as far more difficult than anything she had previously endured. “The treatment is horrific – dehumanising and extremely painful. It’s not like the first two rounds. I’m in a lot more pain now, and chemotherapy is draining all my strength.”

Emotionally, Cynthia says every day is a challenge.

“Some days I cope. Other days, I don’t. It’s a constant emotional rollercoaster. My faith in God gives me hope, but I feel very weak at the moment. People think cancer only affects the person diagnosed, but it affects everyone around you – your family, caretakers, and friends.”

Thankfully, she has a strong support network.

“My sisters – one in Perth and one in Olifantshoek – support me every day. So do my friends and other family members. I cannot believe how many people have rallied behind me. I’m grateful for every one of them. Without their help, I wouldn’t be receiving the treatment I need.”

Although her chemotherapy is currently covered, other treatment costs remain.

“Radiation will cost about R160 000. Cancer is a rich man’s disease – it’s unbelievably expensive. I still need money for medicine, doctor visits, and daily expenses just to stay afloat.” Despite everything, Cynthia holds on to hope. “I just want a break. As soon as I can, I want to become active again and raise awareness so other women don’t have to go through what I’ve been through. These last few months have been incredibly difficult, but I try to stay grateful for the small things in life. There is always hope.”