Life after treatment for women who have survived breast cancer can feel like an uncharted territory, marked by both relief and unexpected challenges. In this report, YETUNDE AJANAKU spoke with survivors of breast cancers on their journey to recovery and how they deal with side effects that characterise their remission journeys, among others.
For many women who survive breast cancer, the journey doesn’t end with the last treatment or a declaration of remission. Instead, it opens a new chapter filled with unique challenges that can often be as overwhelming as the disease itself. From coping with physical changes and side effects to managing the emotional scars and the fear of reocurrence, breast cancer survivors face hurdles that are rarely discussed or found in public domain. As the number of survivors grows, so too does the need to understand and support their ongoing struggles for recovery and resilience.
Beyond the physical toll, breast cancer can leave a profound emotional impact. Many women grapple with an altered body image and a sense of loss over changes to their appearance, particularly after mastectomies or other reconstructive surgeries. The emotional journey of reclaiming self-confidence is further complicated by the “new normal” that survivors are often told to accept, which can be fraught with anxiety, depression, and the constant, haunting fear of reocurrence. This psychological toll can affect relationships, self-esteem, and even the ability to return to work or engage in social activities.
As awareness grows, health professionals and advocacy groups are beginning to recognise the need for a more comprehensive approach to post-treatment care. Survivors need access not only to medical support but also to resources for mental health, physical therapy, and financial counseling. For the thousands of women emerging from breast cancer treatment each year, the journey to wellness is far from over—it’s just beginning.
Though the word ‘cancer’ brings a wave of fear and uncertainty for many, for Mrs Olufunke Ogunmodede, a breast cancer survivor and the driving force behind AmBeautified Life Foundation, it sparked a mission for change. This October, as Breast Cancer Awareness Month unfolds, Ogunmodede is at the forefront, sharing stories of strength, resilience and the importance of early detection.
In a world where a significant number of women will face breast cancer diagnosis, the need for awareness and community support is more vital than ever. With local events, workshops, and screenings, Ogunmodede is not just spreading awareness; she is creating a safe space for survivors to share their journeys and reminding the community that nobody has to face this battle alone.
Narrating her story, she said: “I am a cancer survivor. First and foremost, I give all the glory to God for life. Every day of my life, I thank God for surviving this ailment. It was a scary journey. As I said in my book, Surviving the Scary C, no one should ever go through cancer. It’s a horrible, overwhelming and painful experience which affects you mentally, physically, emotionally and financially.
“As a woman of faith, I strongly believe in all of God’s promises for healing. I thank God for my family and loved ones, it’s very important to have your loved ones around you. Going through this journey, I had access to good medical facilities and personnel–an oncologist, a therapist and a support group.
“Going through the scary cancer journey myself, I understand the importance of support. Support from one’s loved ones and family is very key at such times —group support from a team of medical professionals and patients going through the same. Cancer care is very crucial, you have to find the right support group to help you through it, and you don’t need any pity party people in this journey. You also need a good education about what you are going through.
“The biggest challenge I faced was sharing it with my children and family. I didn’t know how to go about this because I was trying to protect them from the pain. I didn’t want to burden them, so I kept it to myself which wasn’t right.
“But letting them in was the best decision I ever made because it was becoming too overwhelming for my husband. I decided to tell them and they were all supportive.”
She also added that: “My inspiration actually was from supporting another cancer foundation. I understand giving back to the community and I do understand the challenges faced in Nigeria in the cancer space but I just wanted to partner or support which I’ve always done, even though I knew there was more that I could do, but I was inspired by what Engraced Foundation was doing and I got talking with involved and today all is history.
Ogunmoded also shared her experience with people who are going through the same, saying “I have lost quite a number of friends and aunties to this ailment and I’ve also witnessed my friend, Ethel Olomu, the founder of Engraced Foundation lose a few benefactors. It’s all very sad and the worst is learning about young girls losing their breasts and lives to this. All these combined will make you want to reach out. Imagine a lady that died from breast cancer leaving five children including a two-year-old behind.
“As a new foundation that started last year October, there is still so much to be done. Right now, we are very strong on advocacy, sending different messages out there, having annual outreaches where women are being educated on the importance of getting screened for free, debunking myths of breast cancer and also addressing stigmatisation. As a foundation, we collaborate with other foundations, and partners with other health authorities.”
I lost my job because of cancer ―Survivor
Mrs A. Iwaladeorimi, another breast cancer survivor, who was diagnosed six years ago, recalled the uncertainty and fear that came with her diagnosis.
“Hearing the word ‘cancer’ was like stepping into a storm,” she recounted. “But I wasn’t alone, and that made all the difference. In August 2018, I was diagnosed with breast cancer and had to undergo mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
“That year was a roller coaster year for me. It started with me dealing with a lot of things. Financially, I was broke. I lost my job because of cancer. My boss would demand I show her the breast wound, and I refused. I didn’t have a supportive spouse. I was dealing with a lot, domestic violence inclusive.
“I discovered the strength I didn’t know I had and I appreciate life more now. I enjoy life more; from the small things to the big things.
“One particular defining moment that gave me the armour to forge on was the day after the surgery when my then-spouse left me alone in the hospital. The incident made me realise I am strong no matter the situation.
“But all through the journey, I held onto two things. One was the thought of how my life had been before the diagnosis, and how I wanted it to be after I survived. I want my life to mean something; I want to leave a mark and be known for something good. So I held on to that. Because I can only achieve that if I survive. So, I held on to that hope.
“The other thing was my children. They deserve to have a parent to be there for them, and I was the only parent. I also deserve to watch them grow up balanced. I held on to these two things. They helped me to keep my focus and my spirit uplifted, even though it was the darkest time.
“When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I thought of all I could have done. I thought of how I had just been existing before then, oblivious of the gravity of our own human mortality. My outlook to life changed. I don’t sweat things anymore. I neither minor on major things nor major on minor things because life is fickle. It can change in the blink of an eye. My priorities shifted. Now, I want to make every day of my life count for something worthy.”
She also said that though the lack of support from her then-spouse during the period of her cancer treatment affected her, she had to find succor in other areas.
“The most difficult part of my cancer journey, emotionally, was the knowledge and acceptance that my then spouse simply didn’t care. It hit me harder than a wrecking ball. I had to find strength in humour, in my children and in the hope that things will definitely get better. Another emotionally challenging part was learning to be myself again and coping with the side effects of the disease and its treatments.
“My biggest source of support was my sister. She wasn’t there with me physically because we were not living in the same location, but she was there in every way she could. Whenever I got to the lowest of the lowest, my sister would remind me that God will not allow us to be tested beyond our capacity. And that God only allows his strongest soldiers to go through fire and come out beautiful. And he would only send his toughest soldiers on the toughest missions.
“At the time of my cancer journey, I didn’t know any survivor; I tried to but didn’t get to meet any. Societal stigma still affects this aspect, but owing to this, I have been doing my best to build and be a support network for other survivors.
“My life has changed a lot since after breast cancer. I’ve had to find ways around the side effects. I’ve had to be a full-time solo parent to my children. I’ve had to find how to pay off loans I used for the treatment, which I’ve not fully paid off yet. I’ve had to make several life changes. I can’t do some things I used to do easily before. But in all, my life has changed for the better. I know and understand myself better and I appreciate life more.
“The number one lesson I have learnt, which is usually underrated, is to be kind to myself, to love myself unconditionally and to live with that thought in my mind constantly. I’ve also leant to be self-reliant, to be my own best hype man and in so doing, to be God-reliant and above all, to smile and to genuinely smile and be happy no matter what. I’ve also learnt the amazing power of the human mind and thoughts.
“Breast cancer diagnosis is not a death sentence. Early detection and accepting treatment early are the best protection. I want to give women the hope and strength I found. I want to help them navigate the journey, to be there for them, to give them hope and reasons to smile.”
Advising them further, she said: “Firstly, know that it’s not your fault. You didn’t bring cancer because of anything you did. Eat well! Your body needs the fortitude to cope with what’s going on. Don’t use anything that’s not recommended by your doctor. Don’t add to the torment in your body.
“Don’t listen to unsolicited advice from people. Smile always, laugh and be happy. It works wonders. Don’t isolate yourself; reach out if you need help. It’s just cancer, you’ll be fine.
“Understand that no matter what you know or think you know, you can’t fully understand the emotional, physical, and mental effect of cancer. So be kind, be gentle and be the positive vibe.
“Whatever you’re going through, find your strength. It’s there somewhere, waiting for you to tap into it. Find it, hold on to it, and smile,” she advised while encouraging people to “allow a cancer patient to be, so that their journey can be easier. Surround them with lots of love and comfort.”
Level of breast cancer awareness among Nigerians poor ―Expert
A leading expert in breast cancer treatment, Dr Stella Jerry Chuku, expressed concerns about the ongoing challenges in awareness and early detection efforts towards breast cancer.
This is just as she disclosed that the level of awareness among Nigerians, especially the illiterate, is very poor.
“Most people don’t even want to listen to you when you mention the word ‘breast cancer’. It’s a pity that when we talk about awareness, even the very learned persons are not well informed about breast cancer,” she said.
She also said the increase in the number of breast cancer cases can be ascribed to the improvement in the awareness and screening, compared to five years ago.
“Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers among Nigerian women, accounting for about 23% of all cancers in the country, with approximately 26,000 new cases reported annually. Tragically, breast cancer is also a leading cause of cancer-related death among women in Nigeria, where over 40,000 women die from the disease each year. The high mortality rate is largely due to late-stage diagnoses, as over 70% of breast cancer cases in Nigeria are detected only in advanced stages, which significantly lowers survival chances.
“To improve outcomes, Nigerian health initiatives and organisations like the Engraced Life Foundation are working to increase awareness, promote early screening, and expand treatment options.
“Efforts include Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaigns, free and subsidised screenings, and support from groups like the Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN). However, there remains a critical need for broader access to diagnostic and treatment facilities to help address this growing health challenge,” she said.
Chuku also advised people to prevent breast cancer by exercising, eating healthy, avoiding smoking, drinking alcohol, sedentary lifestyle, processed foods and drinks, hard drugs.
As Breast Cancer Awareness Month comes to a close, the stories of survivors, advocates, and healthcare professionals serve as a powerful reminder that the fight against breast cancer extends beyond a single month. From early detection to accessible treatment and emotional support, there’s still much work to be done.
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