Nonhlanhla Sephula – Cancer Stories of Hope #CANSA90

Nonhlanhla Sephula

What is your current cancer diagnosis?

Breast cancer stage 2.

How long have you been living with that cancer?

One month.

How does living with cancer affect you in general in your day-to-day living?

It is a bit stressful knowing that you have cancer, but I have a good support structure. My children and friends are very supportive and that makes it easier. It influences my attitude positively.

Is there a family history of cancer? Please elaborate if yes.

I have no family history of cancer.

How have you or your loved ones been affected by you living with cancer?

My children have been very supportive and they had the opportunity to ask questions about my diagnoses to the doctor. My friends also are supportive. I talk about my feelings and that makes it easier for people to support me.

How has having cancer affected you during this time of COVID-19?

I am panicking more about COVID-19 than cancer. Cancer has hope to be healed and be alive where with COVID 19 it’s difficult. The treatment plan is set in place and I am positive I am going to beat this cancer.

What is your message to our government regarding the prevention, management and treatment of cancer?

I would like the government to help people to do regular check-ups, and send messages on what to do to detect cancer early. Put funds in educating people about cancer and it’s treatment. Especially in townships and rural areas. I am willing to be part of that awareness because with the correct programme and information, cancer can be beaten. I would like to volunteer in driving the cancer awareness especially in townships.

What is your message to other people living with cancer?

A positive attitude and good lifestyle can help. Listen to the doctors and surround yourself with positive people. Pray and believe that you are going to conquer. Love yourself like before you were diagnosed. You are given one body, so take care of it.

Is pain a daily part of your life and how do you manage it?

No.

How has CANSA supported you in your diagnosis?

What I love about the CANSA Survivors – Champions of Hope Facebook support group, is that the members are supportive and respond to questions asked. Especially people like me who just got diagnosed and have no family member or friend who went through this disease. I am grateful.