It’s not easy to show my scars. But I am proud to break the deadly silence around breast cancer in Nigeria
I was told to keep my diagnosis private but I am determined to show the reality of breast cancer and reject the stigma that prevents women seeking treatment
TL;DR
- The author was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 32 in 2017.
- She initially refused chemotherapy, opting for alternative treatments and "wonder foods."
- Her cancer recurred, and after a family member's death from cancer, she decided to undergo chemotherapy.
- She encountered stigma and silence surrounding cancer in Nigeria, making it difficult to connect with other patients.
- The author is now actively sharing photos of her scars on social media to break the silence, challenge stigma, and support other women.
- She highlights that Nigeria has a high burden of cancer, with limited awareness and late diagnosis contributing to high mortality rates, especially for breast cancer.
- Her advocacy aims to reject the shame and secrecy that surrounds cancer in Nigeria and encourage patients to face their diagnosis with strength.