Breast Cancer: Maeve's Patient Story

What happened, in summary

Maeve felt a lump at the top of her breast and was referred from her general practitioner to another hospital for evaluation. After the diagnosis, she began eating more healthfully, increased her exercise, and stopped drinking alcohol. Following medical advice and her own research, Maeve underwent a lumpectomy, lymph-node surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy. She sought additional opinions and considered other options before making her final decision. Diarrhea, fatigue, and hair loss were the treatment effects that affected her most, and prescribed medication helped her manage them. Treatment also brought financial strain because the hospital was about 50 kilometers away and some additional medicines were not covered by her drug payment plan. Maeve hoped to return to work, travel abroad, and enjoy more holidays, outings, and meals with her husband and three children. Her greatest fear was dying and leaving her family. She tried to cope by living in the present and described herself as increasingly optimistic, courageous, hopeful, and thankful.