My name is Monika, I will be 34 soon. I have always been an optimistic person with a positive attitude to life. I drew good energy from meetings with my loved ones and from my favorite activities. I lived a busy life and my days were filled to the brim with tasks. These qualities helped me greatly when I was diagnosed in early 2020 breast cancer. I approached the disease as a challenge - I treated it as a task to be completed. It was also a lesson that made me look at my life, reevaluate certain issues and make changes. Throughout the entire treatment period, I believed that this was just a phase in my life. Although there were worse moments, thanks to the enormous support from family, friends and sometimes even complete strangers, I was able to quickly return to the path of optimism.

I've always been very committed to preventative care and regularly undergo various tests. In July 2019, a cyst was detected during a follow-up breast ultrasound. The doctor's only recommendation was a follow-up in a year. However, the cyst continued to grow, so instead of waiting another year, I decided to repeat the test and consult with another doctor. Although neither the ultrasound nor the fine-needle biopsy indicated any signs of cancer, the doctor recommended cystectomy. The decision to have the cyst removed likely proved to be a lifesaver, as the histopathological examination revealed that the cyst contained triple-negative breast cancer, which is characterized by a very aggressive course. Furthermore, a genetic test revealed that I had the BRCA1 mutation. Initially, I underestimated the threat, and a few months after the surgery, a recurrence occurred in the same breast. It became necessary to take decisive action. The first was a mastectomy, followed by two subsequent chemotherapy treatments – a total of eight cycles. Throughout this period, I supported my body with complementary measures—various supplements and vitamins—which helped rebuild my immune system and alleviate the side effects of chemotherapy. The final step awaits me: radiotherapy.

Intensive treatment allowed the cancer to be stopped, but at the moment it is extremely important to strengthen the body through non-reimbursed immune therapy, which involves high costs. For the last two years I have been trying to cover the costs from my own funds, but they are starting to exceed my capabilities. I will be extremely grateful for any help that will allow me to regain my full strength.

Talking publicly about my problems is something that I find extremely difficult. However, I hope that by telling our stories we will contribute to increasing social awareness of cancer and encourage people to take preventive measures.