Marisa 'eM' Louw

On Friday, 19 February 2021, I met with my oncologist discuss the results of my three-monthly screening for breast cancer. I asked her about remission vs cured and where I fit into the classification. She responded that she would classify me as cured. Her answer came as quite a shock.  After I had time to ponder the news over the weekend, I decided to research the different meanings of being in remission and being cured.  Based on my research below, I strongly question my oncologist's use of the word 'cured', especially since I am still on adjuvant therapy for the next ten years. "The goal of adjuvant therapy is to kill any cancer cells that may remain after primary treatment in order to reduce the chance that the cancer will recur." ( Mayo Clinic ) I feel much more comfortable using the words 'complete remission' for now. As such, I think using #cancerwarrior is more appropriate than #cancersurviror.  "The word cured refers to complete clinical remis...

  When one gets diagnosed with a dread disease like cancer, your life changes. At first, there is disbelief. Then come chaos and fear. The latter remains with you for a very, very long time.  Over the past 19 months, I learnt so much! Not only did I learn about lobular pleomorphic breast cancer and its treatment, but also about the importance of a solid support structure.  One would think that a support structure involves only your family and friends. Yet, each medical professional involved in your diagnosis and treatment becomes a crucial part of your support structure. That is why I advocate the significance of selecting your medical team with the utmost caution and scrutiny.  Today, I want to thank each of the doctors and their teams who are part of my breast cancer journey. Their unconditional care and support make everything more bearable.   Dr Rudolph van Wyk is our family doctor and the one who broke the bad news to my husband and me. His compassion,...