When faced with the unexpected, our true strength shines through. Mrs. Olufumilayo Akinade’s journey with stage four breast cancer began with a simple lump and escalated to a life-altering diagnosis. From initial shock and denial to enduring aggressive chemotherapy, her story is one of resilience, faith, and the power of support.
In this candid interview, the Founder of the Rehoboth Cancer Support Group opens up about her battle, the importance of early detection, and her mission to educate others about breast cancer.
Let’s begin by hearing how it all started.
Could you tell us a bit about yourself and how your journey with cancer started?
Thank you for having me. My name is Mrs Olufumilayo Akinade. I am from Ekiti State but I live in Alimosho, Lagos State. It all began in October 2019 when I noticed a lump in my right breast. I decided to go for a check-up. The first diagnosis I got at an ultrasound was for suspected malignancy and not that it was cancerous.
From there I was referred to the Federal Medical Center in Abeokuta, Ogun State and after a biopsy, I was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma which is stage 2 breast cancer. The oncologist I saw told me it was a life-and-death situation.
What was your reaction to the news?
Like any other cancer survivor, I was in shock and denial. I didn’t want to believe it was happening to me. I was advised to start chemotherapy immediately, but I was hesitant and tried to manage the condition with supplements for about six months, hoping they would shrink the tumorand cure me. From January to July 2020, the cancer progressed. This was during the COVID-19 pandemic.
One day, I started having trouble breathing, but I thought it was just because I wasn’t resting enough. I decided to get some medication, and luckily, I found an ultrasound department nearby. I went in for an ultrasound, and the technician told me he couldn’t explain what he saw and advised me to go to a bigger hospital for further tests.
When I did another ultrasound, they discovered both of my lungs were filled with fluid. The space I had left to breathe in my second lung was only the size of a little finger, and my first lung was filled with water. That’s when they found out it had progressed to stage 4. It had started at stage 2, but because I didn’t get treatment in time, it escalated.
That must have been overwhelming. How did you finally decide to pursue chemotherapy?
When it was confirmed that the cancer had worsened, I started chemotherapy immediately. I had to go through six cycles of chemotherapy, multiple CT scans, and monthly reviews every three months. The cancer was originally in my right breast, but later they discovered it had spread to my left breast as well.
What was the chemotherapy process like for you?
The first few cycles were especially tough because my body was still adjusting to the treatment. Chemotherapy isn’t just a single session, it’s a series of cycles designed to target and kill cancer cells over time. After my initial diagnosis, I was given an aggressive treatment plan to combat the stage 4 cancer. The cycles were spread out over months, allowing my body some recovery time between sessions. Each cycle brought its own set of side effects, both physically and mentally.
Chemotherapy was tough. My hair fell out, and my skin color changed, which arejust some of the most visible side effects. But there were also other challenges, nausea, pains, weakness, and at one point, I even needed a blood transfusion due to complications. It was a long and draining process, but I’m grateful I pulled through.
Did you have to undergo surgery, like a mastectomy, or was the chemotherapy enough?
Fortunately, the chemotherapy worked well, and the tumor shrank considerably. I didn’t have to undergo a full mastectomy, but the journey was still emotionally and physically exhausting.My breasts shrank considerably. It is still there but much smaller than when I started. Nobody goes through it and remains the same or even fully recovers.Chemotherapy doesn’t just target the cancer, it affects your whole body. The drugs can cause changes in your hair, nails, and other body parts. Some people may even experience nerve damage, leading to loss of function in their limbs and fingers.
Did you have a support system during this difficult period?
Yes, my husband, children, oncologists, doctors, and nurses supported me, along with my two cancer support groups. Attending seminars and workshops strengthened me.
What changes have you experienced in the aftermath of chemotherapy?
Since my chemotherapy, I have lost considerable weight, my hair is no longer the same, and I have lost my fingerprint. Even though the cancer is in remission, the treatment has left lasting effects on my body.
One of the most significant adjustments has been to my diet. I have to be very conscious of what I eat. Chemo can disrupt your metabolism and cause weight fluctuations, so I’ve had to regulate my intake of carbohydrates and fats. I follow a low-carb, low-fat diet now to keep my body as healthy as possible. Planning my meals carefully is crucial; I can’t afford to eat too much of anything that might spike my blood sugar or increase inflammation, as both can have negative effects on my recovery. I focus on lean proteins, plant-based food, lots of vegetables, and fruits with low sugar content.
You mentioned the importance of having a strong support system. Can you tell us about the Rehoboth Support Foundation and what inspired you to start one in your area?
The Rehoboth Support Foundation is something very close to my heart. During my battle with cancer, I realized how essential it was to have people who understood what I was going through. I was fortunate to have friends and family. I also had a support group of people who had gone through similar experiences as me. Having people to talk to, share the same experiences with, and lean on emotionally made a huge difference in my journey. Although my foundation has not been registered, we are working on that and doing more for these women.
As an advocate for breast cancer awareness, what are some of the myths you have heard in trying to educate people?
One of the biggest challenges is the belief that cancer, especially breast cancer, is a spiritual issue. Many people in Nigeria think it’s caused by witchcraft or some kind of curse, so they delay seeking medical help and resort to other kinds of treatments even unorthodox ones.Others might turn to spiritual solutions like anointing oil and holy water but there is a time for prayer and a time for medication. I also encounter women who are in denial, just like I was. They’re afraid to get tested or start treatment because they believe it’s a death sentence. Through my advocacy work, I try to dispel these myths and emphasize the importance of early detection and treatment.
You’ve touched on something crucial, early detection. What advice would you give to women when it comes to breast cancer screening?
Early detection is key to survival. Every woman who has started her menstrual cycle should perform regular self-examination and pay attention to any changes in their breasts. If you notice something unusual, like a lump, don’t ignore it. If you are over 20, get a clinical breast examination by a qualified doctor at least twice a year, and once a year, get a mammogram, especially if you’re over 40 or have a family history of cancer. These steps can save your life.
How has your experience with breast cancer changed you emotionally and mentally?
It has changed me profoundly. Cancer has taught me to value life and family. Unlike before, now, I appreciate every moment. The journey has made me stronger and more determined to fight not just for myself but for other women. I’ve learned to trust in God and stay positive, no matter how tough things get.
Even while you are still in the recovery process, what has helped you come so far?
The care and support I got from everybody around me gave me the determination to fight and beat cancer. God has been a big factor in my survival. Some people travel outside the country for treatment and still die so it wasn’t because I got the best care, it was God.
On the topic of best care,after going through such a life-changing experience, what do you think Nigeria could improve in terms of breast cancer treatment and awareness?
Nigeria needs better infrastructure for cancer treatment. We need more specialized hospitals and clinics equipped to handle cancer cases. Public education is also crucial. The government and private sector should invest in awareness campaigns to reach both urban and rural communities. People need to understand that cancer isn’t a death sentence, and with early detection, treatment can be effective. Some people have beat cancer and gone on to have children. Survivors should be at the forefront of this awareness campaign so people will know that chemotherapyis not a death sentence. It is the best option only second to early detection. If I had started my treatment when my breast cancer was in stage 2, I may have been done with it by now.
What do you do to relax and unwind when things get difficult?
I spend time with my children. They’ve been my biggest motivation throughout this journey. I also enjoy reading and listening to music. These things help me stay grounded and remind me of the good in life.
Your story is incredibly inspiring. As we wrap up, is there one final message you’d like to share with women who might be scared to get checked or are currently battling breast cancer?
Don’t be afraid. Early detection saves lives. If you’re diagnosed, don’t lose hope. Surround yourself with a strong support system, and trust the treatment process. With determination, faith, and the right medical care, you can overcome this.
