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When 70-year-old Manorama Mehta was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in 2019 it changed her life. She learned that being positive during her recovery helped her cope with the difficulties that came along with cancer.

“In March 2019 I found a few lumps in my left breast. Earlier also I had found a few lumps but I had ignored it as I was afraid it was cancer."

The worst possible thing you can do is ignore the early signs. If you feel a lump in your breast it is important to get it checked out sooner rather than later. 

“I realized there is no point in delaying the inevitable. We got my mammogram and sonogram done. Upon further investigation and biopsy, it was detected that I indeed had breast cancer. The doctor suggested that I get the operation done without further delay".

Manorama still found it hard to accept her diagnosis of cancer. She had known the risks because in 2017 her sister was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Finding the strength to stay positive through support  

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“On the day of the operation, when I got admitted, my friends and siblings came to see me and cheer me up. I was very calm and remained positive throughout. We spent the whole morning laughing in the hospital room. I went in for my mastectomy at 4 PM with a smile and constant prayers. In no time I was back in the recovery room.” 

It is important to remain strong and optimistic in the face of adversity. Those supporting loved ones who are fighting cancer should keep encouraging and motivating them during these times of distress.

"My older daughter used to hold my hand and made me do the exercises very patiently. She used to bathe me and do my dressing. My son was by my side throughout and also gave a lot of strength to my husband."

When you are sick there are two ways to deal with it. Either you remain sad and pitiful or you stay strong and positive. Manorama believes that through strength and positivity families and friends can come together to support those fighting cancer and help keep them positive. 

Tips on dealing with cancer

Cancer often isn’t a short battle but can last months or years. That’s why it is important to maintain healthy habits.

• Stay Positive ~ Remind yourself that you are strong enough to fight this. You are not the first, and you are not alone.

• Find a Hobby ~ Find a hobby that allows you to de-stress. Activities like creating Mandala art, listening to music, participating in a dance class, or learning to knit can help you to relax.

• Reach out to family and friends ~ Take steps to nurture relationships with friends and family. Be open and communicate. It's okay to share your true feelings.‍
• Stay Active ~ Do gentle yoga routines to help improve strength and combat fatigue. *Always consult a doctor or physical therapist about starting any physical activity. 

Recovering from cancer

It has been three years now since Manorama’s surgery. She still cannot lift objects that weigh more than a kilo but she keeps pushing her limits every day.

She believes that staying positive and trusting in herself and God helped her to recover from cancer. Since then Manorama has tried her best to spread awareness about breast cancer.

"Since the cancer was detected at an early stage, chemotherapy and radiation were not necessary. I would insist all women must get their check ups done regularly so that they can beat cancer without the pain and effects of chemotherapy and radiation." 

Even in recovery, Manorama suggests that people challenge themselves daily by doing things they like to do. One of the ways Manorama has been inspired and found such challenges is through the GetSetUp community.

"I have been a regular member of GetSetUp for the last six months and it has been an inspiration for me. Today I can walk up to 3kms, I can do yoga for an hour. It makes me feel so happy. I also do my arm exercises daily, without fail."