A forum on Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death among Filipino women. Though there is no comprehensive national cancer registry to determine the exact number of incidence, reports claim the Philippines has the highest incidence of this disease in Southeast Asia. Most patients have no known risk factors except that they are women. Clearly no one should be exempt from being too vigilant, and taking care of oneself.

For many people, “You have cancer” are the three most dreaded words in our language. Those who hear them experience many roller coaster emotions which often change as they accept the news and deal with it. Some of these feelings may remain buried in the unconscious and it is essential to bring them into the person’s conscious awareness.

Initially, the diagnosis is always dealt with some degree of denial. Some persons seem to ignore the findings, going on with their normal lives as though nothing is wrong. They are denying their emotions, though internally they are coming apart. That is a sure way to self-destruct.

Others seem to accept the truth yet refuse to admit it on a deeper level. They submit to treatment but do not commit themselves wholeheartedly in trying to get well. Knowing the truth yet refusing to admit it prevents an effective response.

Sharing one’s problem and fears lead to relief and healing within the body. Knowing what you are fighting and how to fight are the keys.

Those who develop cancer have often felt a sense of despair about their lives and withdraw from human contact. Many cancer patients experience a flood of self pity and develop an attitude of “why me.” This is accompanied by strong feelings of anger. This is well founded at this point. They must be encouraged to express all their resentments, hatred and fears. These emotions and feelings are signs that they deeply care when their lives are   threatened.

Time and again research has shown that people who give vent to their negative emotions survive adversity better than those who are emotionally constricted.

To better understand and learn more about the feared big C, the ICANSERVE Foundation brings to Cebu, Silver Linings, an educational forum on breast cancer to be held at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino, its co-host, today, September 6. Registration fee is P100.00

Interesting topics such as Everything You Should Know About Breast Cancer, Dealing with the Side Effects of Treatments, Done with Cancer treatments, what next? will be delivered and thoroughly discussed by eloquent speakers and dedicated doctors such as Kelly Salvador, Francis Lopez, Cecilia Llave, Romy de Villa and Mark Kho, a surgical oncologist. The event will be hosted by celebrities that include Pinky Marquez, Melisa de Leon, Maricel Laxa and Karen Davila.

Here are some inspiring thoughts from women who have had to deal with a sickness they were hardly prepared for.

 Kara Magsanoc Alikpala Broadcast journalist and documentarian

 “It’s been five years since I was told I had breast cancer. The experience doesn’t stop once you’re told you are cancer free or in remission. The meaning of the experience changes each year. It is like reading the Bible. Your take on a verse changes each time you reflect on it.”

“In these days when everybody rants and raves, and talks of abandoning ship, I simply remember the breast cancer survivor reveling in a community of possibilities. Hopefully, there is a thing or two we can learn from them as they take the lead in showing us there is always hope as long as there is faith.”

Crisann Celdran Breast cancer survivor

“Worries about certain aches, pains and upcoming tests are common. These are all part and parcel of being a cancer survivor. Recognize that fear but learn to tame it. Many women find coping with these difficulties easier   when they have helpful information and support services. Take comfort in knowing there is a world of support out there waiting  to help you.”

Marissa Alcoseba Restaurateur and entrepreneur

“There are no mistakes but only lessons learned, as they say. And a very valuable lesson I got after being diagnosed with the big C is that whenever you notice a change in your breasts, one should have it checked immediately. I ignored my retracted right nipple for over a year. It was a good thing that my cancer cells were not the aggressive type.”

“I am now in my last two sessions of radiotherapy after finishing eight cycles of chemotherapy. I still consider ‘my cancering’ as a ‘blessing’ because it made me realize that I am indeed a strong and courageous woman. I believe that this is just a process I am undergoing, therefore, I do not let it control my life.”

 Me’Anne Solomon Past president of the Rotary Club of Fuente

“Ever since I was diagnosed with cancer on September 2004, I would celebrate its anniversary together with my birthday which falls on August 20.” 

“Now on its fourth year, my celebration is always with the kids with cancer at the Cebu Cancer Institute of Perpetual Succour Hospital. I was joined by my dear family,  friends and my special  ‘breast’ friends.” 

“Titong Rafols, Past President of our Rotary Club of Cebu Fuente, donated a generous amount to the Kythe Foundation in memory of his mother who just passed away because of cancer.”

“Truly, celebrating another birthday gives me more reason to celebrate LIFE, not for myself but for others. God is good all the time.”

On a personal note let me add:

Though quality of life is the most important thing, people naturally want to extend its quantity as well. Most of those who have changed in response to illness have outlived their doctors expectations. By their own lives they have proven that love and authentic spirituality do increase one’s time as well as ones joy.

Sadness can be lessened by looking in the mirror and smiling, as long as one is not denying the sadness .Truly, putting a smile will create a different message that is fed back into the nervous system. You can grieve for a loss or a trial, but still keep yourself from losing all perspective, all appreciation for the good things that remain in your life.