From Diagnosis to Victory: My Stage 3 Breast Cancer Journey

My Survival Story: Fighting Stage 3 Breast Cancer with Faith, Family & Strength

If you're reading this and you're in the middle of your own fight with breast cancer, or you've just been diagnosed, know this: You are not alone. I’ve walked that difficult path, and today, I want to share my story with you. I hope that by sharing my journey, you can find strength and hope as you face your own battle.

My name is Sarika, and in 2015, my world was shaken to its core when I was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer. At the time, I was 32 years old, a loving wife to my husband Aman, and a mother to my beautiful four-year-old daughter, Anika. Life felt good—normal, even. Until one day, everything changed.

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The Discovery:

It started with a simple, seemingly harmless moment. While showering one day, I felt a lump in my right breast. At first, I thought I was just imagining things. But as the days went by, I couldn't shake the feeling that something wasn't right. I spoke to Aman about it, and we decided to consult a gynecologist. After an exam, she reassured me that it was just fibrous tissue, nothing to worry about. But even after hearing that, I couldn't ignore it. The lump was still there, and I could feel it every day.

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Seeking Medical Advice:

During a visit to my hometown in Kullu, the lump seemed more prominent, and the nagging feeling that something was wrong grew stronger. This time, I knew I had to act. I consulted Dr. Naru, one of the top doctors in Kullu. After a brief exam, she hesitated before suggesting that I see a surgeon for further tests. The words "You should get tests done just to be sure" made my heart sink. But I wasn’t prepared for what would come next.

When I returned to Ludhiana, I met Dr. N.K. Chaudhary at Christian Medical College (CMC). After an ultrasound and FNAC (Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology), the results were inconclusive. I felt lost, unsure of what to do next. Then came the recommendation for a biopsy. At that point, I didn’t even know what a biopsy was, but I agreed to it, hoping for answers.

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Diagnosis:

The day the biopsy results came in, everything changed. My worst fear was realized: Stage 3 Breast Cancer. I remember sitting there, numb, as the doctor delivered the news. Tears flowed uncontrollably, and I felt like my world was crumbling. But through the fog of fear and tears, I heard Aman’s reassuring voice. He said, “It’s been caught early, Sarika. That’s a blessing. We’re going to fight this together.”

That was the moment I knew I couldn’t give up. With Aman by my side, I had to keep going for my family—for Anika, for Aman, and for myself.

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Support and Family Strength:

In that moment of despair, I was surrounded by the most incredible support system. My husband, Aman, my daughter, Anika, and my entire family were there, encouraging me, lifting me up when I couldn’t stand on my own. Aman’s strength became my anchor, and my family’s love became my motivation.

We consulted multiple doctors to get second and third opinions, and after hearing the same advice from all of them, I knew surgery was inevitable. But I felt a sense of peace knowing I wasn’t alone in this decision. My family was right there with me, supporting every step.

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The Surgery:

On June 30, 2015, I went into surgery. It was a scary, surreal experience. The doctors and nurses were kind and patient, and I remember feeling their warmth as I drifted into unconsciousness. When I woke up in the recovery room, the first face I saw was Aman’s. His smile was like a ray of hope, and I knew the surgery was a success. I couldn’t have done it without him.

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Chemotherapy:

After surgery came the tough part—chemotherapy. I had 8 rounds of chemotherapy, followed by 25 rounds of radiotherapy. Each round tested my strength in ways I never imagined. There were days when I felt weak, both physically and emotionally. But every time I looked into Anika’s eyes, I found the strength to keep going. I couldn’t stop. I had to keep fighting—for her, for Aman, and for all the women out there battling the same disease.

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Gratitude and Moving Forward:

Today, as a Breast Cancer survivor, I can look back on this journey with a sense of deep gratitude. I’m grateful for my doctors, my family, and my friends who stood by me every step of the way. But most of all, I’m grateful for the strength I discovered within myself. The journey wasn’t easy, but it taught me the true power of love, family, and faith.

To all the Pink Ribbon sisters out there: You are not alone. Together, we are stronger than cancer. Together, we will rise.

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Contact and Support:

If you’re going through a similar journey and need someone to talk to, I’m here. Reach out to me through comments, email, or follow me on Facebook/ Instagram/Pinterest (@reply2sarika). We’re all in this together.

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Call to Action:

If you’re fighting breast cancer, know that you’re not alone. Stay strong, stay hopeful, and keep fighting. Share your story, connect with others, and let’s continue to support one another on this journey. We are stronger together.

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