Woman shares battle against cancer amid stigmatisation

Tichavona Makonese Having survived breast cancer, a 51-year-old nurse feels the battle against cancer has inspired her to make a meaningful impact in her community.Felicitas Farai Ngubo’s fight against cancer has helped her come up with an organisation that assists cancer victims.These experiences have not only tested her fortitude but also fuelled her desire to make a meaningful impact in her community.In an interview, Felicitas reflected on her journey.“During this challenging period, I faced stigma and discrimination at work “I was leading a significant project that required me to travel to various countries, but my illness was used against me by some colleagues.“It made me reevaluate my priorities, and I chose to resign, prioritizing my health and mental well-being.”In 2023, Felicitas was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer, which had spread to her lymph nodes “After undergoing a mastectomy and chemotherapy, I faced yet another challenge when doctors suspected ovarian cancer, leading to further surgery “Throughout this process, I received mixed advice from relatives and friends, some encouraged me to seek traditional medicines, while others discouraged me from pursuing chemotherapy, believing it might not help However, I chose to follow the medical advice I received.”Just as she began radiotherapy, her firstborn son was involved in a road traffic accident, resulting in paralysis from the waist down Amidst these overwhelming challenges, she found clarity and purpose, recognising a critical gap in care services for the elderly and individuals with disabilities in Zimbabwe.Felicitus with her injured son“I saw the urgent need for compassionate care.“My experiences as both a nurse and a patient inspired me to create a service that offers dignity and support.”She emphasised that understanding and compassion are essential in caregiving, shaped by her own hardships.“My mission is to enhance the lives of others facing similar struggles “I believe that everyone deserves dignity and support, especially during difficult times.” Felicitas’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, people can find purpose and inspire others.“Being diagnosed with cancer does not mean the end of life.“I also advise people to have constant check-ups for cancer, as the disease can be treated if diagnosed in its early stages “People should not deny seeking medical treatment “In my case, the cancer was aggressive and spreading quickly; it had already reached my lymph nodes.“I feel affected when I hear about someone being neglected and dying from cancer “That is the reason I share my story—to restore hope to others,” she added.Share on FacebookPost on XFollow usSave Originally published on Zimbabwe Herald All Zim News is a central hub for all things Zimbabwean, curating news from across the country so no story is missed Alongside aggregation, our team of nationwide reporters provides real-time, on-the-ground coverage Stay informed and connected — reach us at admin@allzimnews.com . Source: Herald_Com