I lost my breast and could not talk - Cancer ­­survivor

Getting a mastectomy a year ago due to breast cancer was one of the most traumatising experiences for Becky Omondi. Later, she suffered a stroke and had to be taken care of like a baby. The mother of three spoke to CATE MUKEI and revealed how she coped

Who is Becky Omondi?

I was born and raised in Nakuru. I come from a very humble background. I was a happy healthy girl and rarely fell sick. I had no major health issues.

How did you find out you had cancer?

One Sunday after church, I noticed a dent on my breast and went to hospital for lactation pills as my son had stopped breastfeeding. I assumed that was the cause. After a physical check-up, I was sent for a breast scan which revealed that I had a tumour.

I was booked for surgery. After the first surgery, my results came after a few days. The doctor was a bit hesitant to tell me the truth. But he finally told me that the tumour had cancerous cells.

How did you react to the news?

I cried a lot. My sister and husband tried to comfort me, but I was devastated. The doctors stated that they had to remove my breast. I cannot explain how I felt. I questioned God, but didn’t give up on prayers. After my second chemotherapy, I developed lower back pains.

One of my discs was displaced and my legs went numb. I could not walk. At some point, I was given some drugs to help strengthen my bones. The night after taking the drugs, I didn’t wake up. I had a serious reaction. I was paralysed and I lost my speech.

I didn’t understand what was happening to me. I was being fed and taken to the toilet like a baby.

How did your husband and children deal with this?

My husband was traumatised and confused. Our children kept asking where I was and when I was coming back. My husband supported and encouraged me.

What were some of the challenges during treatment?

 I was stressed and threw up a lot. I was very weak because I could not eat. I also got a bad chest infection which led to a very bad cough.

What was going through your mind before the surgeries?

I prayed a lot and begged God for a second chance. I wanted to see my kids grow. I was very scared. The smell of the operating theatre still haunts me to date.

How long did it take you to be declared cancer free?

One year. I had no peace during festive holidays  since I didn’t know what awaited me come January (that is when my final medical results were to be ready) but I kept praying for good results.

What was your reaction when the doctor revealed you were cancer free?

I had mixed feelings. I was both exited and emotional. I thanked God and called my family and friends to share the good news.

Has your lifestyle changed?

My life has not changed apart from the fact that I have one breast. I try to leave as a normal person and go about my daily routine. I eat well, I laugh loud, I stress less and I strengthen my relationship with God.

What would you advice other people who are going through a similar situation?

My advice is to never give up. Be prayerful and don’t look at yourself as a sick person. Follow the doctor’s instructions and don’t mix traditional drugs with the medicines prescribed by the doctor. Cancer is not a death sentence, but a second chance at life.