In June 2023, at the age of 35, I went for a mammogram after noticing a bump in my left breast. One scan and an ultrasound later, the doctor was at my bedside, already suspecting something and performing a biopsy. My heart sank when I received the call confirming that I had Stage 2 breast cancer after a CT scan. Even as I write this, I’m still filled with emotion.

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From that point, everything moved quickly. My husband and I met with my oncologist the same week and I began chemotherapy. I started with three months of AC chemo, one session every 20 days, followed by three months of weekly Taxol treatments.

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By the end of September, my blood count was dangerously low, and I had to inject myself with Neupogen to help rebuild my white blood cells before the next session. It was an exhausting and intense rollercoaster, but I made it through by God’s grace.

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In January 2024, I finished chemo and scheduled a double mastectomy with reconstruction for February 15, 2024. I am deeply grateful for the amazing doctors who guided me through this journey — Dr. Ananda Vorster, Dr. Pierre van Rooyen, and Dr. JH Kritzinger at Groenkloof Hospital. It’s only in the last couple of months, almost 9 months after the surgery, that I’ve started to feel like myself again — and it feels wonderful.

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I’ve learned so much through this experience — about my relationship with God, my family, and myself. I’ve discovered how strong my body can be, and how God always provides. My biggest blessing is that I’m cancer-free, from the moment of my operation.

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One of the most emotional moments for me was cutting my hair. I had made the decision that when my hair started falling out, I would shave it. I was surrounded by my family that morning — my husband, my niece, my mother, and a close friend — and that made all the difference. It was a special, supportive moment I’ll always treasure.

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As summer approached, I struggled with the heat and the discomfort of wool beanies and wigs. I couldn’t find any lightweight, breathable caps, so I found a supplier and ordered a few in different colors to match my outfits. It was a game-changer for me, as I was already dealing with low self-esteem, weight gain from the medication, and exhaustion. I thought, “It shouldn’t be this hard to find something comfortable and suitable.” 

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Other cancer patients began asking where I got my caps, and I directed them to my supplier. But I realized that for many, especially the elderly who aren’t as tech-savvy, finding these caps could be difficult. So, I decided to use my platform to help make the process easier for all cancer patients, so that finding the right headwear isn’t a hassle during such a challenging time.

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Now, I’m reselling these caps and headwear, hoping to help other women feel pretty and comfortable during their treatment.

To do it with PASSION. It’s such a vulnerable time, and I want others to feel good about themselves and proud of how far they’ve come. May God bless and heal you all.

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Love,

Janeke