From The Straits Times    |

Siti Dzaleha, 45, self-employed, and Zulkiffle S. Salim, 49, freelance security trainer
You’d hardly guess that jovial and bubbly Siti has just emerged from one of the most trying periods of her life. The 45-year-old was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer in August 2013, and spent the next year battling the disease.

She felt a prickling sensation in her left breast one morning, but dismissed it as a symptom of premenstrual syndrome. However, the pain continued to persist after five days, so she decided to consult a doctor.

“I mentally prepared myself for the worst. As such, after the diagnosis, I asked my oncologist to arrange for a surgery immediately, as my thoughts were focused on getting well as quickly as possible,” she says.

The gutsy mother of three underwent a modified radical mastectomy 10 days after getting diagnosed, in which two lumps and 14 lymph nodes were removed from her left breast. This was followed by six cycles of chemotherapy.

Despite the gravity of the situation, Siti remained optimistic. “I told myself I had to stay strong, as my husband and three children aged 22, 19 and 14, would be affected if they saw me upset. I’ve seen entire households fall into depression after a cancer diagnosis, and I didn’t want that to happen to my family,” she shares.

“I also knew that a positive mindset would help me immensely on my road to recovery, so I went for my treatments with an open mind and heart.”

On his part, Zul kept Siti’s spirits up. He ensured that she ate well, driving her across the island in search of her favourite foods. He made sure to spend quality time with her in the evenings, whether it was enjoying a simple dinner together, or taking a stroll on the beach.

“I knew she would be counting on me for support, so I resolved to stay positive. Plus, having been with Siti for half my life, I know she is a strong and determined person. There was no doubt in my mind that she would have a speedy recovery,” says Zul.

Adds Siti, who is now in remission: “I think my brush with breast cancer has brought us closer. Before the cancer, I used to be quite a workaholic, always busy with one thing or another. Now, I’ve learnt to take my foot off the gas pedal and just relax. Zul and I have also learnt not to take each other for granted, and treasure the time we spend together.”

This article was originally published in Simply Her October 2015.