Breast cancer was something that only happened to other people, or so I thought. With no family history of cancer, and only being 35 years old and living a healthy and active life, getting cancer was the last thing on my mind.

I went to see my GP in April this year as I had the flu and I asked her to quickly do an annual PAP smear and breast exam. Low and behold, she found a lump on the side of my left breast. From then on it was a roller-coaster ride of doctors’ visits, hospitals and bad news. I was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer and needed to start chemotherapy treatment as soon as possible. My life as I knew it would be forever changed.

The journey ahead was terrifying and overwhelming but I found my strength in the love and support of my family, friends and amazing medical team. I am humbled by the human kindness that continues to come my way and have learnt to be even more grateful for what I have. Living in the moment and taking each day as it comes has helped me move forward during this time.

With only 4 treatments left, I look back on my journey and can’t believe that it is almost over. There is light at the end of the tunnel and there most certainly is life after breast cancer!

If I can leave you with some invaluable advice – remember that early detection is key to saving lives, so do your monthly self-examination and go for your annual check-ups!

– Kelly Littlefield, Herbex Brand Manager

Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to life-threatening illnesses like cancer. Read this article on risk reduction, prevention and early detection!