"You can beat cancer": mom shares her journey of strength and survival

FOR Anjuna Krishuncoomar, a 52-year-old widow and mother of two, life changed forever after a routine mammogram in July 2024 led to a diagnosis she never expected: stage 1 breast cancer.

An administrator at a local college and a long-time resident of Isipingo Beach, Krishuncoomar said the initial discovery left her shaken. 

"A routine mammogram check in July confirmed some abnormalities. Further testing - a vacuum biopsy - confirmed my deepest fear," she said.

The official diagnosis came just a week before Christmas, a time usually marked by joy in the Krishuncoomar household. 

“I was devastated at first. Luckily my doctor at Albert Luthuli Central Hospital reassured me I was in good hands.”

Needing time to process the life-altering news, Krishuncoomar asked her daughter for space. 

“It was not easy to accept the news, I eventually had to get myself together.”

In September, she underwent surgery to remove both the cancerous mass and surrounding lymph nodes. Although her recovery was painful, she counts herself lucky: chemotherapy was not required, and she experienced only mild side effects. She is currently on medication and is set to begin radiation treatment in November.

“I am still awaiting one last set of results, which I will get at the end of the month. But I am confident that it will also be clear.”

The journey has taken an emotional toll not just on her, but on her family, especially her daughters. 

"It was a difficult time for my youngest daughter. She had to be my support. At first we could not share the news with my eldest daughter who is working abroad. 

“My girls were reassured that I would recover, but the scare they felt of losing another parent during this time and my surgery breaks my heart.”

As she adjusts to life post-surgery, Krishuncoomar acknowledges her limits. 

"My life has definitely changed. From being someone who is always quick on my feet, I now have to take things much easier as I get tired easily."

Still, she chooses to focus on the positives. 

“Cancer has taught me my well-being is more important than anything else in life. It's okay to say no. Appreciation for life, being fit, and the things that I can still do is what matters.”

Though she has not yet joined any cancer support organisations due to time constraints, Krishuncoomar hopes to in the future. In the meantime, she encourages others to remain hopeful.

“Hearing you have cancer crushes you in so many ways. It does not matter what stage you have, the word 'cancer' alone is a lot to handle. But treatment has evolved. A healthy lifestyle is very important to beat this.”

With Breast Cancer Awareness Month and her birthday both falling in October, the cause holds a special place in her heart. 

“I urge women to have regular mammograms and pap smear checks. Cancer has no age or gender limit. Early detection can help you beat cancer. Remember, you can beat cancer. The scars left behind are just proof that you survived,” said Krishuncoomar. 

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