Breast Cancer Survivor Story from Mysore: How Preethi Fought with Courage and Grace

When 42-year-old Preethi first walked into my clinic, she looked worried but composed. A school teacher and mother of two, she had recently noticed a small lump in her left breast while showering which she was fearing it could be diagnosed as breast cancer.

“I wasn’t sure if it was anything serious. It didn’t hurt, but I couldn’t ignore it,” Preethi recalled. “That’s when I decided to seek medical help instead of Googling and overthinking.”

She did the right thing. Breast lumps can have many causes — some harmless, others serious — but early evaluation is key.

Preethi’s first consultation was about more than just the lump — it was about reassurance, information, and creating a space where she could speak freely.

“You’re doing the right thing by coming early,” I told her. “We’ll take this one step at a time — together.”

We performed a clinical breast examination and advised further evaluation.

Preethi underwent a mammogram and breast ultrasound. The imaging showed a suspicious lesion. Hence we decided to get a core needle biopsy.

“The waiting was the hardest part. I kept thinking — what if it’s cancer?” Preethi admitted.

Within days, the biopsy confirmed it: Invasive ductal carcinoma.

“I remember the doctor looked me in the eye and said, ‘Yes, it is cancer — but it’s treatable. And you’ve come at the right time.’ That gave me hope.”

We discussed treatment options, and Preethi opted for a breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) followed by sentinel lymph node biopsy.

“The word surgery scared me, but I kept thinking — this is the step that gets the cancer out of me,” she said.

The surgery went well. The margins were clear, and only one lymph node showed microscopic spread.

“The doctor explained every detail to me and my husband. I wasn’t just a case — I was a person whose life they were trying to save,” Preethi shared with tears in her eyes.

Because of the lymph node involvement, adjuvant chemotherapy was advised.

“I was afraid of losing my hair more than the chemo itself,” Preethi joked. “But then I realized, what’s hair when my life is on the line?”

She went through 6 cycles of chemotherapy with resilience. She took walks, read books, and even returned to teaching part-time during her treatment breaks.

“It wasn’t easy, but I made it a goal to stay mentally strong. My family, friends, and my doctor were my support system.”

Today, Preethi is one year post-treatment and doing well. She continues her hormone therapy and follows up regularly.

“Cancer taught me how strong I am. Early detection saved my life. And my doctor walked with me every step of the way.”

Her story is one of hope, strength, and awareness.

“If you’re reading this and have noticed something unusual in your body — please don’t delay. It might just save your life,” she says.

As a surgical oncologist, I’ve seen many journeys like Preethi’s. Each is unique, but one truth stands tall: Early detection saves lives.

“If you feel a lump, notice a change in your breast, or are over 40, don’t ignore it. Come in. Let’s talk. Let’s check. It could save your life.”

• Do self-breast exams regularly.
• Don’t ignore any changes.
• Mammograms after 40 are important.
• Early diagnosis = better treatment outcomes.

If Preethi’s story touched you, share this blog to raise awareness. You might help someone recognize the signs early and seek help — just like she did.

Preethi’s Story: How One Woman Fought Breast Cancer with Courage and Grace Preethi’s battle with breast cancer in Mysore highlights the importance of early detection and the support of a skilled surgical oncologist. Following diagnosis through mammography, she bravely underwent chemotherapy under the guidance of her Oncologist. Continuing hormone therapy underscores the value of regular follow-ups to prevent cancer recurrence. Preethi’s journey serves as a beacon of hope, emphasizing the crucial role of early detection in saving lives.

Keywords: breast cancer survivor story, overcoming breast cancer, how I survived breast cancer naturally/emotionally/with family support, emotional impact of breast cancer, tips from a breast cancer survivor