By Neil Brian Joseph
Cancer battle makes me a better person, says survivor
KOTA KINABALU: Cancer is not a death sentence. It is a chance for you to learn how to be thankful, said Rainty Tioh, a breast cancer survivor.
The mother of three was diagnosed with the disease five years ago. When the doctors told her the news, she thought that it was the end of the road for her.
One of the first few things that came to her mind was her kids. She asked herself what would happen to her kids, who were at that time, aged 10, eight and four.
Her heart was filled with a mixture of unexplainable emotions. From confusion, pain, fear and even anger. At times, she wished that it was not her.
After she was diagnosed, there were a lot people who came to her and gave her advice.
“People would come up to me and tell me what to eat and what not to eat. They would sell me direct selling products. They would even ask me to search the Internet for answers,” said Rainty.
She admitted that some of the advice she received from her loved ones had caused her pain instead of comfort, even though they did not intend to do so.
However, she did not give up and she vowed to press on. She told herself that she should trust her doctor.
Rainty had her first surgery on her birthday. Ever since then, she had undergone numerous sessions and cycles of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and a targeted therapy.
Even during her treatment and early days of cancer, she continued to stay fit by doing what she loved, which is sports.
Being a cancer patient did not stop Rainty from joining numerous marathons and cycling events.
“Although, I was diagnosed with cancer, it did not stop me from doing what I love,” said Rainty.
Today, she is healthy and as strong as ever. Although, the journey was not easy for her, she knows that she is on the right path.
“I thought I was a strong person before. Cancer has taken my pride away. I am now a better person than I used to be,” said Rainty.
Rainty also advised those who might have a family member or a loved one who is currently diagnosed with cancer to not give up and to keep giving the patients moral support.
Rainty is currently a full time housewife and she is an active member of the Kinabalu Pink Ribbon Association.
As of now, Rainty is undergoing hormone therapy. She is also still active in sports and she looks forward to help her fellow cancer patients.
Rainty gave a speech during the launching ceremony of the ‘We Can, I Can’ cancer awareness campaign at KPJ Sabah Specialist Hospital, Damai yesterday.