Cancer Talks with Dr Sarat Addanki

Kimberly Wheeler went for a routine exam when a lump was detected, and she was diagnosed with (ER-positive) breast cancer. It was challenging as she also had an ostomy from ulcerative colitis. Kimberly Wheeler underwent a double mastectomy with reconstruction, along with six months of chemotherapy.

Juanita Prada was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia at age ten and fourteen. She was affected with cancer twice and underwent chemotherapy, radiation and blood transfusions as a part of her journey. She says that " I live in the moment, and each minute I breathe is a gift. During cancer and its treatments, it is important to surround yourself with people who will help you rise up again and regain the energy that is missing."

Vera Ventura was diagnosed with bilateral breast cancer in 2019. She had inherited mutated genes from her family. She went through several sessions of chemotherapy, double mastectomy and reconstruction. When all her treatments were finally over, she was diagnosed with a tumor in her cerebellum in 2021. The breast cancer had metastasized into the brain at some point, which stopped the blood flow. However, the tumor was later removed, and Vera could heal after the treatment and is now a breast cancer support coach She says, " I would say to all cancer patients to get the service of a cancer coach who will lead you through the cancer journey. They have helped me a lot personally. You have to research, make changes, and not expect everyone to take care of you because you got cancer. And, have a belief in something greater than yourself."

Megan Claire Chase was diagnosed with Stage 2 invasive lobular breast cancer. Since she turned 18, Megan's health has been under observation as she was experiencing certain issues. This diagnosis came as a complete surprise to her. She tells other cancer patients that "It is okay not to be okay. The cancer journey can be difficult to handle alone, so take professional help. As a caregiver, I would say it is okay to take time for yourself and seek help when needed."

Donia Youssef is a breast cancer survivor. She was diagnosed with cancer after noticing a lump under her armpit. She was diagnosed with breast cancer. Donia says that cancer was a roller coaster ride. Her advice for other cancer patients is to keep up hope and faith, to stay focused and calm. No matter how horrendous the situation is, there is always something positive.

Dhruba was diagnosed with Breast Cancer twice. She noticed various symptoms. She had severe pain in one of her breasts. At first, she thought it was hormonal changes & some general infection. But after visiting a hospital, the doctor discovered this might be serious. In the total journey, she had eight chemotherapy sessions and 15 radiation treatments, including the surgery where she had decided to go for a double mastectomy. Druba never gave up. She fought the battle & survived. All we need to do is have faith and confidence in who we are. Strong support & strength are necessary for this treatment.

Alisha was diagnosed with Breast Cancer after she noticed a lump in her breast at the age of 31 during her second pregnancy. When the doctors conducted the ultrasound, there were no noticeable changes. She then had a C-section and gave birth to her baby boy. Once she started breastfeeding, her breasts became hard again. The doctors noticed something wrong, conducted FNAC and MRI, and diagnosed her with breast cancer. Her mother is an active member of the Indian Cancer Society. She supported her throughout the journey, but unfortunately, she had cancer recurrence after 25 years. Alisha says, "Positivity is the only thing that can help you fight this disease. Keep positive things around you. There can be side effects, but they will pass away."

Brandi Benson is an Ewing Sarcoma survivor. She was diagnosed with cancer after noticing a lump on her leg, which she first dismissed. Her advice for other cancer patients is to believe in themselves and never give up because there are miracles every day. She says that cancer has motivated her to do better in life.

Flávia Maoli was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma at the age of 23. However, she did not give up hope. Instead, she learned from her cancer experience and fought back with far more courage and optimism the second time Hodgkin's Lymphoma struck her. In fact, using her outstanding interpersonal abilities, she founded Instituto Camaleao to serve society and inspire them through her cancer journey.

Lynette Vanderhorst is a Gestational Trophoblastic Disease survivor Her cancer journey began when my pregnancy test was positive just six months after giving birth to her son when the doctors performed a D&C. But she believes that her cancer journey taught her a lot of things. She asks her fellow warriors to believe in themselves, stay grounded, stay focused, and stay in the moment.