GEORGINA MUSHI

Georgina, a mother of three boys, discovered a lump in her breast in 2002. 13 years later, she decided to go to Helen Joseph to get it checked out. The lump had grown and she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Georgina is ambitious and describes herself as a big dreamer, but being the eldest of her siblings, she has always been the responsible one.

“Being the first-born in a traditional home made me a naturally strong person. I guess cancer just perfected my strength even more.”

Georgina received a lot of support from her family and they were always available to assist in many ways. She advises, those who undergo the process to “mourn” cancer, feel the pain, get depressed, shut the world out and cry as much as they want to – JUST FEEL.
READ MORE

JENNA SKEWS

Jenna Skews discovered she had malignant phyllodes tumor at the start of her matric year. Jenna was scared and confused as to why this was happening to her at the tender age of 17. Jenna was told her tumor was a sarcoma, meaning no radiation or chemotherapy was needed. However, she was later informed she would need to undergo a mastectomy to remove all possible threat of malignant cells.

“I’m an average girl – a daughter, sister, girlfriend and friend.”

Being a teenager, Jenna had to deal with many difficult emotional stages most girls her age never think about. She had a lot to process and the emotional and physical stress was daunting; Jenna didn’t let this bring her down, she had so much to achieve in her life. Despite the challenges of her diagnosis, she continued her studies and managed to complete high school. Jenna believes the key to survival is to look at what lies ahead, even when you think you have reached your lowest point. Focus on your goal and not your current circumstance.
READ MORE

SHERINE KOCK

Sherine is a 56 year old, three times cancer survivor, who believes that challenges are merely reminders of the super powers that every woman carries within herself.

“It is true that you never know how strong you are, until being strong is the only option.”

A mother to three wonderful children, a wife to a loving husband and a motivational speaker. Sherine was first diagnosed with breast cancer when her youngest child was three years old (15 years ago). Five years later, she was diagnosed with cancer on her femur, which was treated but then spread to her other femur, spine and skull.

Through the support of her husband, family and friends, she regained her confidence and founded a support group, which she says is her way of giving back to society. Sherine believes every woman has a hero within herself.
READ MORE

STACEY COHEN

 Stacey Cohen, mother of two, was diagnosed with stage three cancer at the age of 36. Stacey underwent chemotherapy for several months, a course of radiation for six weeks and had a double mastectomy. Subsequently she has undergone several operations and one must ask; how did she cope with so much? Stacey had a lot of love and support from friends and family, which played a big role in her recovery.

She continued daily with her gym and running routine whilst undergoing her chemo and radiation treatments.

“It’s the small things that make me appreciate each day. I am happiest when I spend an afternoon at home with my family in my garden.”

Since her experience, Stacey counsels women who are experiencing the same difficulties she experienced. Stacey is also in the process of writing a book to document her journey and inspire other women who face all sorts of life challenges.
READ MORE

LIVING WITH BREAST CANCER

According to the Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa) breast cancer is the leading female cancer in South Africa. Cancer of the breast, however, is not just a female problem and more and more often there are reports of male breast cancer too.

VEEP STAR JULIA LOUIS-DREYFUS DIAGNOSED WIT BREAST CANCER

The star of Veep and Seinfeld posted word of her illness Thursday on social media. A spokeswoman for Louis-Dreyfus confirmed the posts were authentic.

9 BREAST MYTHS YOU SHOULD KNOW

With so many myths and preconceived notions on the internet and in our minds, it is often difficult to determine what is fact and what is fiction.

‘I BEAT CANCER, NOW WHAT?’

It’s perfectly normal for cancer survivors to feel anxious or scared about the cancer returning, especially in their first year following treatment.

Dr Harris suggests that survivors do a genetic test to determine their susceptibility to relapse – if they qualify.

HOW DO YOU CELEBRATE BEING A WOMAN?

I celebrate daily through the choices I make, from the outfit I wear to the conversations I engage in. I am aware of my femininity and the power I carry.

WHAT THREE TIPS ON WOMANHOOD WOULD YOU SHARE WITH YOUR DAUGHTER?

Be true to who you are. You were never born with a manual on how to handle yourself but you have me as your mother to show you the right path to follow.