Hearing the Heartbeat: A Journey from Breast Cancer Diagnosis to Motherhood

by Cindy Wu

Perhaps you have just been diagnosed with cancer, or you are already on the treatment path. No matter what stage you are in, I hope my story can bring you strength and hope.

Diagnosed with Breast Cancer at 32

In August 2009, at 32, I received a significant challenge from life. I first discovered a lump in my breast and visited a gynecologist. The doctor referred me to a breast surgeon, who suggested removing the lump. A week after surgery, the pathology report revealed it was cancer. The doctor immediately scheduled a second surgery to clear the surrounding tissue and recommended radiation therapy. When the doctor confirmed my breast cancer diagnosis, the sky was blue, but my heart was raining. After crying at home, I told myself it was just an illness—a severe one—but I would recover if I followed the doctor's treatment plan.

Seeking a Second Opinion at Koo Foundation Sun Yat-Sen Cancer Center

Feeling uneasy about undergoing a second surgery without thorough examinations, I sought a second opinion at Koo Foundation Sun Yat-Sen Cancer Center, as recommended by a friend. The doctor there confirmed the breast cancer diagnosis but advised additional preoperative tests before proceeding with another surgery. I chose Dr. Ben-Long Yu, who assured me that despite my cancer being close to the nipple, he would try to preserve the breast as I was young and unmarried. Post-surgery, he humorously told my mother that the breast's integrity was preserved, and the wound was beautifully stitched. His humor and consideration greatly reduced my anxiety, helping me embrace a happy marriage later on.

Continuing with Chemotherapy

Alongside partial mastectomy, sentinel lymph node biopsy was performed, revealing no lymph node infection. However, my 2.05 cm tumor classified me as Stage II, and due to my young age, the hospital recommended six cycles of Adriamycin (Doxorubicin) chemotherapy and 30 radiation sessions. Since my hormone receptor was positive, I had to take Tamoxifen for five years post-treatment.

Marriage After Chemotherapy

During my cancer journey, I had a boyfriend who is now my husband. Despite my suggestion to break up, he stayed by my side throughout the treatment, even when I gained weight and lost my hair due to chemotherapy. We married after I completed the five-year Tamoxifen course.

The Journey to Parenthood

Having children was my wish. Six months after stopping the medication, we actively tried to conceive. However, after a year without success, we sought help at an infertility clinic, discovering a blocked fallopian tube and low AMH levels. We tried various methods and prayed for success. After a year, I finally got pregnant but experienced miscarriages due to autoimmune issues. A specialist told me natural pregnancy was impossible, and even IVF might not succeed, suggesting egg donation. Disheartened, I turned to alternative medicine.

Hearing the Heartbeat

I visited immunology and Chinese medicine specialists who gave me hope, stating that with proper care, I could naturally conceive despite my age. Six months later, when I was about to give up, I got pregnant. From hearing the heartbeat to monitoring the baby’s growth, I balanced Western and Chinese medicine until I gave birth to a beautiful daughter at 42.

Why Did I Get Cancer at a Young Age?

Years ago, I transitioned to follow-up visits, now under Dr. Shi-Ping Chen. Throughout my pregnancies and check-ups, Dr. Chen's reassurance always brought joy. I believe my early cancer diagnosis had a purpose. Before cancer, I was a food blogger, working tirelessly. Post-diagnosis, I changed my lifestyle, adopting a healthier diet and mindset, becoming less concerned about others’ opinions. After treatment, I confidently job-hunted with a short hairstyle.

Sharing My Story

Besides personal adjustments, I felt I could contribute more. I blogged about my treatment and emotions during cancer, though some details were missed due to physical and emotional strain. Later, I saw Koo Foundation Sun Yat-Sen Cancer Center’s call for cancer patient stories and knew it was time to share mine with others.