Breast cancer: Be a survivor not a victim

EVER since I was a teenager, I have heard of an enemy who is as close to us women as our heart. It is an enemy which has no ethnicity, color or faith and who will not consider your social status, position or religious denomination. It is an inhuman nemesis which has been known to mankind since ancient times, when it was described as a disease that has no cure. Scientists have spent years trying to understand it and determine its symptoms and signs, because if there is a will, then there is a way. Medical research has succeeded in giving us a clear vision of how to fight this enemy. Women around the world have conducted campaigns to spread awareness and educate everyone about the symptoms and causes of this disease. Now after decades of war that have left behind thousands of victims, we can proudly proclaim that we have won the war - the war against breast cancer. Over the past decade, we have witnessed women who were brave enough to face their fears, who have fought against breast cancer and who have publicized their personal experience which has had a great impact on so many women’s lives. Foremost among such women is Dr. Samia Al-Amoudi who was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2006. Upon receiving the diagnosis, instead of moaning about what God had chosen for her, she wiped off her fears along with her tears and decided to equip herself to fight against her enemy. I am sure that her journey was not easy but after many weeks or maybe months enduring physical and psychological pain, she finally arrived safe and proud! Today she is a survivor who has succeeded in spreading awareness about breast cancer among women, and she is a role model to millions whose hope has been uplifted by hearing the story of her journey. Her story is not science fiction; it is a real story of success that started with breast self-examination. During the month of October, many people lecture and spread awareness about breast cancer; however, only a few respond and think seriously about breast screening. Before you diminish the importance of breast screening, think of your children, your parents and your spouse and how they would feel if you ignored any sign that was drawing attention to your health. Always remember that if breast cancer has left thousands of victims, it has also left millions of survivors around the world. My words are dedicated to all women who have suffered from this disease and to all survivors who have shared their stories with others and have paved the way for women who are imprisoned by fears and disappointment. Sarah Alrefaei, Teaching Assistant Dar Al-Hekma University Jeddah