Ten years ago, I received a life-changing diagnosis: breast cancer. But this story is not just about cancer—it’s also about how I navigated this diagnosis alongside my Bipolar mental health. My journey is a complex, ongoing story that I’ll share in several parts, so stay tuned as I take you through it.
Let’s start at the beginning. When I first heard the words “breast cancer,” I was overwhelmed with fear and a single, resounding question: Why me? As I began radiation treatments, I was fortunate to have the support of my family and friends. Their presence was a constant reminder that I wasn’t alone, even during my hardest days.
While undergoing treatment, I remained committed to my preventative medication plans. However, this time in my life took a significant toll on my mental health. The side effects of cancer treatment, paired with my Bipolar disorder, created a perfect storm. I experienced heightened panic attacks, restlessness, manic episodes, and impulsive decisions that left me drained and questioning how to move forward.
But through it all, I leaned heavily on my coping skills, continuously reached out for help, and relied on the strength of my support system. It wasn’t easy, but those tools helped me maintain balance and a manageable life.
This chapter of my life taught me that resilience is built one step at a time, even when everything feels overwhelming.
