Essie's big 'C' fight

UPDATE ON MY CANCER JOURNEY – A DIFFICULT AND OVERWHELMING TIME

Unfortunately, my surgery, which was scheduled for next Friday, has been postponed until later in November. I still need to undergo several additional tests before the doctors can proceed.

The reports have shown concerning findings in the lymph nodes under one of my arms. The doctors may need to remove some of these lymph nodes and send them for testing to determine whether the cancer has spread. My surgeon and professor now need to discuss my case in detail and finalise the best treatment plan. I will be undergoing surgery on both sides.

Before surgery can take place, I also need blood tests and consultations with another doctor to assess the rest of my body and organs and ensure that everything is safe for the operation. I have also been instructed to start taking different medication tomorrow.

Another major challenge is finding a suitable hospital and determining the full cost of the procedures. As I do not have medical aid, this is an enormous financial burden. So far, the more affordable h...