Math teacher beats Big C, hails health care system
Patricia, a Filipina teacher based in Al Ain, is a proud breast cancer survivor. Initially shocked and devastated after being told that she had cancer, the 48-year-old showed fortitude to overcome her fears, and panic to beat the Big C.
Patricia’s battle began in late 2019 when she felt pain in her left breast. Doing self-examination, she felt a abnormal lump. “I was scared that it could be cancer. After opening up to my colleague, they urged me to get it checked. A mammogram confirmed I had breast cancer. I needed to undergo immediate treatment.”
The math teacher at a private school had to pull herself up the bootstraps.“i was scared of losing my hair, my looks, my job, but I had to pull myself out of crying. So, I said to myself that I will overcome this because life is beautiful and I need to be strong for my family. Above all, I wanted to get cured and live my life,” she said.
Patricia was referred to Tawam Hospital, part of Abu Dhabi Health Services Company’s (Seha). She was admitted to the hospital’s Breast Care Center (BCC), where a tailored treatment plan was designed for her. “I started my treatment, chemotherapy and surgery, all in the midst of the pandemic, and that was really difficult to deal with. I felt all alone dealing with cancer while isolated from the world,” she said.
Patricia tried to live as normal a life as possible and continued to teach students remotely.
“I am thankful and lucky for the great support I received from my school colleagues, family, caregivers at Tawam Breast Cancer Center and the great health system in the UAE. Early detection saved my life,” she said.
Dr Aydah Saleh Alawadhi, consultant and medical oncologist, Tawam Breast Cancer Center, pointed out that Patricia’s treatment was successful largely because of early diagnosis.“this sends a powerful message to women. Due to Patricia’s early diagnosis, the team were able to create an effective treatment plan.”
Appointments for mammogram can be made at 800 50.