Year 2016, the most devastating time of my life. I had my routine mammogram at BreastScreen SA and I was recalled for more tests which included a series of repeated mammograms, ultrasound tests and a biopsy and … sadly, a cancer!

Moments of thoughts, tears flowing and decisions to make and questions … How am I’m going to say this to my two children? Somehow, I did with uncontrollable tears and sadness.

I was immediately referred to a breast specialist and had an operation. My first question to my specialist, “is it going to come back?” For me, I was unlucky and in 2019 it did come back on my right breast. Another 2 operations and radiotherapy and I am currently still on tablets with series of side effects. The good news is that my breast cancers were found in the very early stages, when treatment is very successful.

After treatment, I decided to go back to work as if “nothing happened”. I work with newly arrived migrant and refugee mums in a School Community Hub, where I support and teach women to learn English. Being around them and encouraging them has helped me and heightened my confidence, to “get on with it” and enjoy the life I have. Having been through this experience, I like to remind myself that when you get to the end of the rope, tie a knot and hang on!

Whilst no woman wants to be diagnosed with a breast cancer, it can happen to even the healthiest woman. Overall, my experience was positive, because my cancer was found early and that without the full support from my family, I wouldn’t survive.

I believe we are so lucky to have a women’s screening program that is caring, inclusive for women from all cultural backgrounds and is free. I don’t think if I was in my native country, I would receive the support and treatment that I have experienced in Australia.

I will never forget the beautiful supportive staff from BreastScreen SA, who encouraged me to believe that everything is going to be okay. The breast care nurses and the medical specialists inspired me and I thank them for the positive effect they have had on my wellbeing.

I'm so pleased I went for my routine mammogram, as I know some women choose not to go or ignore their letter to go back for their screening test every two years. As part of my work, I now organise information sessions for my mums on why breast screening is important.

Thank you BreastScreen SA. I will continue spreading the news about breast screening so women are aware that attending routine mammograms may save their lives.