SHARJAH 9 November 2018: Amal, 45-year-old, is one of Pink Caravan’s proud success stories whose victory over cancer highlights the fact that 98 per cent breast cancers are completely curable if detected early.
“I was diagnosed with breast cancer seven years ago, around the same time that the first edition of Pink Caravan Ride launched in 2011,” said the mother of three expressing that her initial reactions were a mix of disbelief and ignorance. “I was in attendance at a Pink Caravan awareness campaign, which was followed up by a free medical screening for all participants.”
Explaining how the rest of that evening changed her life forever, she said: “I was not keen on getting the free examination, especially because all my colleagues who went in for their screenings came out with flying results. Had it not been for the insistence of Dr. Sawsan Al Madhi, Director General of FOCP and Head of Pink Caravan’s Medical and Awareness Committee, I would have not found out that day that there was a solid lump in my breast.”
“I was immediately referred to a hospital in Abu Dhabi for a biopsy, which confirmed I had breast cancer. I still get nervous when I think what could have been the outcome if I did receive the free screening from Pink Caravan that day.”
Amal highlighted that regular self-examinations and breast screenings are imperative to ensure that breast cancer is detected early and treated in time. She said: “The symptoms hardly manifest early on, which is why I thought screening was not necessary. Early cancer detection can be the separator between life and death. It is the reason I am alive.”
“Since my diagnosis in 2011, FOCP bore the cost of my treatment for three years, which included surgery, chemotherapy and a plastic surgery. I am grateful for the strong financial, psychological and emotional support FOCP extended to me and my family, which is mainly why I am completely cancer free and living a healthy, happy life with my children,” added Amal.
Dr. Al Madhi highlighted the importance of sharing such stories, saying these accounts are the greatest source of inspiration and courage to those who are battling cancer.
“Women like Amal are a shining example of humanity, who not only overcame this difficult disease by showing utmost resolve but continue their fight against cancer by motivating others with their touching journeys. Amal’s story compels us to reconsider our attitude towards our health. It is an eye opener for us to not take our bodies for granted, to be more sensitive to the changes that occur as we age, and seek regular medical attention to address issues, if any.
“These stories highlight the importance of early detection through regular check-ups, because breast cancer cannot be detected in its early stages except through medical examinations.”
Pink Caravan’s medical experts have indicated that people who can feel lumps, skin changes, swelling and pain during self-examination or abnormalities in the breast area, or nipple discharge should immediately seek medical attention. Some of these changes, according to them, are natural occurrences during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
The initiative strongly recommends nutritious diets replete with fruit and vegetables, maintenance of a healthy weight, daily exercise and careful use of supplementary hormones.