›› Fearless Females: Joke A. Fabunmi

I noticed the “lump” in late December 2007.  After, several medical testing, a breast biopsy followed in March of 2008.  Afterwards, my surgeon advised me to get a mastectomy immediately.  I was extremely scared and confused; I have no history of breast cancer or any other cancer in my family.  Coming from a large and extended family with many living women… mother, sister, grandmothers, aunties, cousins all without any cancer not alone breast cancer… this was far too “left field.”  The diagnosis was a mistake!  That was my reasoning.  Eventually, I had to face reality and move forward with my “treatment” options. 

I knew immediately that I should seek another doctor’s opinion.  However, I was so afraid.  I purposely hesitated with seeking any further options because I knew deep down, that the news was not good, I am living with that regret.  I was “paralyzed” with fear; I didn’t know what to do.  Anyway, once I was able to regain my sanity, I sought the opinion of another surgeon.  The second doctor agreed with the initial assessment.  However, the new doctor recommended additional testing due to her suspicion that the cancer had spread…  MORE BAD NEWS!!!!

I was at a nail salon when the doctor called and informed me of the CT scan result.  The cancer had possibly spread out of the breast and into the lung; it had metastasized.  She strongly urged me to start chemotherapy immediately.  That call came on Friday in June 2008.  The surgeon arranged for me to meet an oncology specialist within the hospital.  We met on Monday; the oncologist diagnosed the cancer at stage IV with metastases to the lung.  I started my first round of chemo treatments that following Thursday.  Two weeks later, I had surgery installing a “port” into my chest just in time for the second round of chemo treatments.  The added toll of the surgery, stress, and fear reeked havoc on me mentally and physically. 

Mean while I was in the midst of having my daughter follow on to University in August.  You know, when you are a mother you have to multi task.  It does not matter if your world is falling apart, mothers must remain strong and not let their children see them fall in the process.  Thankfully, I was able get my daughter settled into the University, while fighting for my life.  Some times situations arise which reminds us that when God is for you, NOTTING can be against you...for me, this was one of my moments. 

I tried to work during the chemo treatments but after the sixth round, I was not able to.  I asked my employer if I could work from home, with no luck.  Three weeks into the last chemo treatment and getting out of bed became increasingly harder.  I was not able to sit up because of excruciating pain all over my body especially in my lower back.  My doctor prescribed stronger pain medicine and ordered that I get a bone scan.  I give thanks to GOD that the bone scan now shows no evidence of metastatic cancer.

Still, by this time, I was suffering from the effects of taking numerous medications along with the cumulative side effects of the chemotherapy.  I had no other choice but to apply for short-term disability…  I didn’t want this!  However, it was the only entitlement afforded to me by my company since I had only been working for the company for three months prior to my diagnosis. 

My doctor approved my disability and thankfully, I am receiving some income.  In order to manage, I have since moved in with my parents temporarily while I recuperate.  I find relief in knowing that my daughter is at an independent age and that she is growing into a strong young woman.  However, I still worry about her.  I had my daughter at a young age and I am so grateful I did; she is my only child. 

The doctor said my progress is coming along wonderfully; I am grateful for that.  I am also thankful that I have met so many brave individuals along the way.  I am so very grateful to know you Maimah; you are truly beautiful.  Thank you so much for all of your support; I pray that God continues to bless you.  I am also praying that we will find a cure for this dreadful disease, especially now that it’s affecting so many young and younger women.  Treatment side effects are devastating; however, I am thankful to have the treatment and more thankful for the GOOD NEWS, that God has healed me!