Fighting Breast Cancer with Determination

October 24, 2011

Tears rolled down when I was admitted in the hospital for chemotherapy, then I heard a voice, “Welcome to the club, have faith in God, be brave and fight against this disease” a German lady on the bed next to mine was trying to console me. I knew I was going to lose all my hair for the second time. This treatment was going to last for six months and another six months I needed to roam with my head fully covered till my hair grew. Looking at my head fully covered (hijab), even the priest and the pastoral helper had confusion while giving communion during the mass (but never denied me the communion).

A common perception come to our mind is cancer=death. Things have changed in the modern world. All over the world “breast cancer” awareness is spread with the help of seminars, print and electronic media. Such awareness really helps to diagnose breast cancer at early stages and also due to advance methods and treatments the whole scenario has changed. Billions of dollars are spent on research and awareness every year. During the month of October many towers are illuminated to support the cause of breast cancer Awareness.

I was impressed with Daijiworld publishing pleas of needy people and readers generously contributing towards the cause. Hats-off to Daijiworld and its readers.


Pink Ribbon Day observed around the world

Being a cancer patient I would like to share my experience with the readers to understand breast cancer and also understand cancer patients around them. As October is internationally known as breast cancer awareness month and Pink Ribbon Day is October 24, 2011, I thought it is the right time to write an article. Cancer is a vast subject which I will try to explain in simple language using minimum medical terms in the information and my personal experience.

When I was first diagnosed, I was very much depressed; future was in dark and all my plans were blown up in winds. My children were small and it took lots of courage to get myself out of that. I just looked at myself one day and thought, I can live like this - depressed and worried about my cancer - or get on top of it, try and fight it, and get through it being ‘happy and positive'. It is really hard to do that, but one day I just decided to fight it and get through it. Now almost four years later, I am still fighting with the disease with strong determination and positive attitude. I never complained about my pain, but kept smiling and some people whom I meet every day are surprised that I am a cancer patient.

If someone has been diagnosed with breast cancer, the one thing I would say is: “Never, never give in to it - Always be positive.” I have learned that we should live each day to the fullest and cherish every moment that we can with our family and friends. It's a tough road but feels great as you move on.

Once I was diagnosed with cancer, I left Kuwait and travelled to India for treatment leaving kids with my husband. After the basic treatment (Surgery, Chemotherapy and Radiation) for seven months I came back to Kuwait to pick up my life where I left off. I continued my treatment in Kuwait Cancer Hospital. The doctors and medical staff were very kind, co-operative, informative and ready to help at any situation. My employer welcomed me with a big smile despite my long absence which made me very comfortable. I have received immense support from my family and friends, employers and office staff. They were taking care of every little thing, which gave me a boost.

Prayers played an important role in my life. Everyone is praying for me, may God bless them all. I was just praying to God to give me the strength to carry this cross. He gave me loving family and friends, extra-ordinarily caring employer and office staff, good doctors and medical staff and generous charitable institutions.

A humble request to the readers if you come across any cancer patients around you I would say show them the concern, care for them, pray for them, help them to carry their cross, make them happy, ask for any assistance. Help them if they need financial help if you can afford, as the treatment of this disease so expensive which will drain any ones pocket, all the hard earned savings of life will vanish in no time.


What is breast cancer?

First of all we should understand cancer. Our body tissues were made up with normal cells. Whenever our body needs normal cells multiply and die whenever not needed. cancer cells are abnormal cells which our body doesn’t need them and multiplies out of control and these cells forget to die. It may happen to any part of our body and block any organ. We name them according the organ it affected like breast cancer, lung cancer, liver cancer etc.

There are two common types of breast cancer, Ductal Carcinoma (Medical Term for cancer) which starts in the tubes that moves milk from breast to nipples and Lobular Carcinoma starts at parts of the breast lobules that produces milk. breast cancer may be invasive (spreads to other place) or non-invasive (may invade if not treated on time). The breast cancer is sensitive to the hormone ‘estrogen’ which causes breast cancer tumors to grow. In a few cases 1cm X 1cm tumor also proved to be aggressive one.


What causes breast cancer?

Certain changes in DNA can cause normal breast cells to become cancer. DNA is the chemical in each of our cells that makes up our genes -- the instructions for how our cells work. Some inherited DNA changes (mutations) can increase the risk for developing cancer and cause the cancers that run in some families. For instance, gene BRCA1 and BRCA2 are tumor suppressor genes -- they keep cancer tumors from forming. When they are changed (mutated), they no longer cause cells to die at the right time, and cancer is more likely to develop. So far, the causes of most of the DNA mutations that could lead to breast cancer are not known.


SYMPTOMS

Cancers cells doesn’t develop overnight, it is difficult to detect at early stage unless if the lady undergoes regulars tests. I would suggest every woman above 35 years should compulsory undergo Mammography which is common test detect the breast tumors. Common symptoms are lump in the breast and armpit (lymph nodes) which are hard and less sensitive, change in the size of the breast and nipples, any type of fluid coming out of the nipples.

In my case, I noticed a lump in my left breast in Aug/Sept 2007, I was under the impression that my son could not take breast feed for 3-4 days due to fever. But the lump didn’t subsidize for a month. When we were celebrating my son’s first Birthday (Sept 24, 2007) I discussed this matter with a lady who is expert care taker of new born baby and Mother, she immediately ordered us for the tests. Unfortunately it turned out to be a cancer.


Stages of cancer: We often hear of only three stages of cancer

Stage 0 cancer cells which are not invaded to surrounding tissues.
Stage I cancers are localized to one part of the body.
Stage II cancers are locally advanced.
Stage III cancers are also locally advanced affected lymph nodes or nearby organs.
Stage IV cancers have often metastasized, or spread to other organs or throughout the body.


Pink Ribbon Day observed around the world


Tests and diagnosis

The doctor will advise the following test to depending upon the symptoms. Several tests should be conducted to come to a conclusion about the type of cancer, size of the tumor and areas of spread etc.

Mammography: to find tumors, lumps in the breast.
Breast Ultra Sound: to check whether the lump is hard or fluid filled
Fine Needle Aspiration Test: Some cells are extracted through a needle from the tumor to check the cells are cancerous.
Breast MRI: Evaluation of a lump
CT Scan: to test the spread of cancer.
 

TREATMENT

The treatment will depend from patient to patient, type and stage of cancer, sensitive to hormones and age. The following are most common types.

Surgery: Surgery is performed to remove whole breast (Mastectomy) or to remove the cancerous lump (lumpectomy) and tissue from breast to lymph nodes (below armpit). Surgeon and radiologist will decide upon the size of the lump, type cancer, family history, age after consulting the patient. Once the surgery is performed the tumor is sent to biopsy and the outcome will help the doctors for further treatment.
 
As I am living in Kuwait even though the all facilities are available I became panic and during initial stages of diagnosis it was time consuming and difficult get early dates for surgery. So I decided to travel India and get operated. Before the operation doctor did counseling, which helped me to overcome fear about cancer and surgery. My surgery was partial Mastectomy - part of the breast removed and till my armpit (partial Mastectomy).

Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy (drugs infused into the vain) to eliminate any stray cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence. It is used to destroy different types of cancer at various stages. Chemotherapy medicines can stop cancer cells dividing and reproducing. Our healthy cells can repair the damage caused by chemotherapy, but cancer cells can’t and eventually die.

Chemotherapy will help to shrink the tumor before surgery or radiotherapy, stop cancer coming back after surgery or radiotherapy. The type of chemotherapy medicine depends on the type of cancer, biopsy report of the tumor, age and general health condition of the patient.

This is the toughest part of the treatment. I had undergone this therapy twice. First chemotherapy was started after the surgery. It was given every third week and total six cycles. Second time doctors found there are risk of spreading to other part of the body. It was for six months total eighteen cycles. Both the times I lost all my hair even eye brows and eye lashes. This treatment has lot of side effects. Diet during this period plays an important role. Before every treatment I should undergo blood test. If not satisfactory doctor may postpone the treatment. Thanks to relatives who force fed me aloe-vera juice, combination of other juices and good diet. As per doctor my blood reports were better than other patients during the chemotherapy. This period I have undergone lot of changes mentally and physically. I have experienced side effects like nausea, vomiting, fatigue, sleepless nights, frustration, impatience, irritation and short temper are the part of life during the treatment. During this period the people around gave me immense support to overcome these problems.

Radiotherapy: Radiation treatment destroys cancer by focusing high-energy rays on the cancer cells. This causes damage to the molecules that make up the cancer cells and leads them to commit suicide. Radiotherapy utilizes high-energy gamma-rays that are emitted from metals such as radium or high-energy x-rays that are created in a special machine. Technologies have improved so that beams can be more accurately targeted to the affected tissues.
 
I have gone through this process four times. First time immediately after the chemotherapy was done for 35days. Later on the cancer cells invaded to the back bones and ribs. Whenever I get the pain any part of the back bone it was treated with radiotherapy normally 10 cycles each. It has side effects like skin will blacken around the treatment and peel off, tiredness and vomiting.

The above mentioned treatments are most common procedures. There are follows-ups like physical examination, blood test, various scans time to time. Even doctors may advice to go for immune therapy, hormone therapy etc.

By Charlotte Cutinha
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Comment on this article

  • Noel, Shirtady/Kuwait

    Sat, Dec 29 2012

    You fought the disease till the last breath of your life. May her soul rest in Peace - (died 01-12-2012)

  • Sunita Pereira, Mumbai/London

    Sat, Dec 24 2011

    Dear Charlotte,

    When I read this article I felt ur pain and also had moist eyes. I hope the pain I felt took away some of ur pain. Don't let anything dampen ur fighting spirit.
    May God bless u and ur family. All The Best!!

  • Sandeep Modak, Mumbai

    Tue, Nov 08 2011

    Dear Charlottoni,

    Hats of to you for the extraordinary and immense courage of mentioning the contents and even making us aware on the dreaded issue.With personalities like you you around, it is not far that we humans will eventually evict the problem forever from our life. Please take care and have plenty of home made juices, especially grape seed extract, vitamins (for immunity) and proteins for muscle and body health and rejuvination.

  • Mary Pereira , Shirtady/Bombay

    Fri, Nov 04 2011

    I wish you speedy recovery. God bless you, Noel and your sons. I pray God to give you strength and patience. Noel is a great support to you. You are in our prayers always.

  • Reshma Pereira, Kota

    Thu, Nov 03 2011

    Sha,

    I am speechless.. zapped to see and experience so much courage in you. You r the best and will always remain the best for me. Luv u so much dear. I strongly believe that u will overcome this very soon. U will be healed physically.Mentally and spiritually u have done it dear. May ur holyland trip give u more strength to bear ur cross. We need your blessings...Luv and prayers will continue for you all days of my life. Take care and Get WELL SOON.

  • Vikas Mehta, Kota,Rajasthan

    Thu, Nov 03 2011

    Keep on going Di with full courage and Determination.God give us the problems and we need strength and strong determination to fight it,which you are already doing.We pray for you and salute the way you are coping with it.Never give up Di and Get well soon.

  • Declan, Mumbai

    Tue, Nov 01 2011

    Dear Charlotte,
    Noticed in the Sandesh section of Daijiworld that it is your birthday today. Wish you many happy returns of the day ? May God bestow extraordinary courage, strength and blessings on you and may you have many many more birthdays to come ! We pray you get well soon !

  • Anastasia, Sydney

    Mon, Oct 31 2011

    Dear Charlotte,

    Reading your article has overwhelmed me. Though you are undergoing a tough time, you are one tough lady who has always kept your chin up. I admire your fighting spirit and your attitude Charlotte. It gives me and all readers, HOPE. You are in our thoughts and prayers. I love you Sis always.

  • Julie D'Souza , Mangalore/Dubai

    Mon, Oct 31 2011

    Charlotte you are really a brave lady. I met you twice, but never thought that you are a cancer patient. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with all the women. You are in our prayers & thoughts. God bless you and your family.

  • Linda DSouza, Shirthady Kuwait

    Mon, Oct 31 2011

    Dear Charlotte Bai.May God Bless you. We will keep you in our daily prayers that Jesus may touch you and heal you completely. This article about breast cancer and for spreading awareness to millions of people around the world.Thank you so much for sharing all the knowledge about breast cancer with Daijiworld readers.

  • Marina, Mangalore/Dubai

    Mon, Oct 31 2011

    What an inspiration for us, all women to be made aware in simple words! Hats off to Charlotte for inspiring everyone around the world, not forgetting her family who have supported her immensely. My good wishes and prayers!

  • martis eric, shirva,now mangalore

    Sun, Oct 30 2011

    dear charlotte, i appreciate your concern towards others, while facing the problem you want others be alerted and avoid from being suffered from the same, may lord almighty grant you good health and cure you completely,
    i had last year worked on the same matter and gathered lots of information to create awareness for breast cancer in rural area and also with swasahaya mahila sanga around mangalore, but the whole idea was paused for various reasons, now you have motivated me to proceed, your information too are valuable, will remember you in my prayers.

  • MARK & ASHWINI D'SOUZA., Kukkude-Kemmannu/Kuwait.

    Sun, Oct 30 2011

    Dearest Charlotte,
    The article is very much informative.Hats off to you Charlotte!!! You are always in our daily prayers,we are very happy to see your sweet smiling face everyday, even though you come across so much pain.So also we are glad that you have such a loving n caring husband Wilfy(Noel)with sweet children - Keith & Kriss. God Bless You and Our prayers are always with you!!!!!!!we are always there with you in your joy and sorrow and also pray for your speedy recovery.
    God Bless You All.

  • aithappa moolya, mangalore/dubai

    Sat, Oct 29 2011

    I salute you bravo lady! Keep up your spirits and God will definitely cure your disease completely.
    I cherish your kindness of spreading this awareness in days when people just hide such diseases from others to prevent embarassment.

  • Connie D'souza, Mumbai

    Sat, Oct 29 2011

    Hi Charlotte,

    Marvelous article, for any lay person to understand. Keep spreading the word further about your expierences through the reach of internet through blogs and other mediums.

    God Bless.

    Sincerly,
    Connie

  • dr kusuma kumari g , nellore/kodyadka

    Fri, Oct 28 2011

    May god cure you completely and my prayers are there with you always and always

  • Valentina Furtado, Sagar,Manipal, Kuwait.

    Thu, Oct 27 2011

    First thanks to Daiji.
    Hats off to you Charlottle........you are always in our prayers............. dont lose hope. we are always happy to see your sweet smiling face, even though you come across so much pain.and also glad that you have such a loving,n carring husband, with sweet children.God shower his blessing on u n ur fly.tc,

  • Corrine Rasquinha, Bendur/Mangalore

    Thu, Oct 27 2011

    Dear Charlotte,
    I know it takes alot of courage to face this challenge of life. I too am part of your club. I am diagnosed with third stage breast cancer. I have completed my treatment of Surgery, Chemeo and radiation. I am fighting fit. Though was on my death bed given only a couple of hours to live because of the acute Hepatitis B that I contacted in the course of treatment in April 2009. Today I am alive to give glory to God to prove that miracles do happen. I know what you have gone through for I have gone through the same. Put your trust in God He will never fail.Take courage and keep going. God is with us.

  • ibrahim, Mangalore

    Wed, Oct 26 2011

    Sister wish you a speedy recovery, as you said fight confidently Almighty has the cure for all disceases. Well please check following tips, stay away from Microwave cooked food, avoid milk and milk related food, try to eat Dates (if you get Ajwa from Madeena, it has curing abilities) and eat fresh olives and add pure olive oil to salad. May God cure you 100%. Ameen

  • Laveena Nazareth, Mumbai

    Wed, Oct 26 2011

    lots of courage and determination indeed. The lord indeed has a definite and awesome plan instored for u. Your support system rocks man especially your husband(noel).count your blessings and there lies your strength. Love and prayers always assured from us for all of you.

  • uncle rony,aunt pramila n rochel, mumbai\mulund

    Wed, Oct 26 2011

    You have always been an inspiration for all of us. we know that u will overcome this one day n will enjoy the joys that the Lord has instored for u. u were always there in our prayers n will always be.we appreciate ur determination n may God bless u.

  • Mary/Mervin D'Cunha, Bombay/Kuwait

    Wed, Oct 26 2011

    Dear Charlotte,
    You and your family are always in our prayers dear. We pray for your recovery soon, and ask God to give you enough courage and strength to overcome this challenge and especially with small kids your fight to overcome this hurdle is even harder, yet you have not only been facing the challenge yourself but have also inspired many with your real experience through this article. Hats off to Noel who has been managing things with patience, God bless him too and your children.

  • Jyothi Furtado, Barkur/USA

    Wed, Oct 26 2011

    Be brave & get well soon...

  • Treza, Mlore

    Wed, Oct 26 2011

    God bless you and give you the strength to recover soon. Your faith and courage will cure your disease completely. My prayers are always with you hats off for your courage.

  • Charlotte Cutinha, Mumbai/Kuwait

    Wed, Oct 26 2011

    Dear Friends and Well Wishers,
    I would thank you from the bottom of my heart for your good wishes, prayers and blessings. Really I am feeling better since the article was published and wishes and prayers are started pouring in. May the almighty God Bless you all with the all the happiness and keep you healthy always.

    Best Regards,
    Charlotte Cutinha

  • Joyal D'souza, shirva

    Tue, Oct 25 2011

    Dear Charlotte Many thanks for the sharing your true story. Really you blessed with God and appreciate your courage.We will pray for you, may God hear our strong prayer and it will get cured and you would be happy like before.

  • Melwin D'souza, M'lore/ kwt

    Tue, Oct 25 2011

    Thank you Charlotte for this Sharing your pain ful story. God cure you completely.

  • clara helen, mangalore, muscat

    Tue, Oct 25 2011

    Dear Charlotte, may God bless you and cure u completely! We'll pray for u and all other cancer patients. Nothing is impossible for God! May d Almighty heal you at the earliest!

  • Roshni, Kuwait/ Mumbai

    Tue, Oct 25 2011

    Dear Charlotte,

    A very inspiring article! Thanks for sharing your experience for the benefit of many! May God bless u and heal you completely. You and your family are in our prayers

  • sylvia, kinnigoli

    Tue, Oct 25 2011

    hi Charlotte
    Informative article. The way you described the article strictly says women should take of their self.Thank you again for sharing your experience. I cant say i enjoyed reading but surely i will say felt your pain .

  • Clarence, Mulki / Mumbai

    Tue, Oct 25 2011

    "MY SISTER STRONGEST". These are the only words i am left with, Rest I see it in all the other comments. May God Bless you dear.

  • Lavina, Kuwait

    Tue, Oct 25 2011

    Thank you Charlotte for sharing this informative article, being a friend of yours, I noticed a lot of pain in you. But without showing it you are leaving happily and smiling by the grace of god. You are a brave woman who is fighting against it. May the god bless you, your loving cute children and lovely husband. Dear, you are always in our prayers and we pray for your complete recovery. Hoping miracle will happen, May god bless and heal you and all those who are fighting against it, you are a real inspiration. As this is the month of awareness of Breast Cancer May the god bless every woman and protect them from this deadly disease.

  • Janet Crasto, Dubai/Mumbai

    Tue, Oct 25 2011

    Hi Charlotte, This is Janet here and I salute you for your bravery. You all are always in my prayers. Like Lora aunty i too feel you are now very bold and courages. Hats off to you once again and May God Bless you and your family always.
    Keep smiling and take care. Janet

  • Vishwanath Shetty, Parkala / Mumbai

    Tue, Oct 25 2011

    Hi , Thanks for Sharing those Infrmation & your Painful Experience.
    Your Article brought me painful memories of a Young Friend who scumbled to Breast Cancer nearly 15 yrs back !
    SHe had just completed her Graduation & was such a Bubble Girl..it was Painful to see her in pain during her last days..
    You seem to be a God Child to over come those Pain & be a Winner...
    May Good Bless You !

  • christine, mangalore

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    God bless charlotte thanks for the article keep you in my prayers
    christine

  • Tony, Mangalore/Sydney

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    An excellent article on the dreadful disease of cancer, and thank you Charlotte for sharing your experience. Your courage, determination and positive attitude to fight your own disease, indeed, is admirable and helpful, and I wish and pray for your full recovery. Having lost three of my own brothers to Cancer in the recent past (smoke and drinks related in two cases), I can fully understand and relate very well the pain, sufferings and the trauma you and the other cancer patients are being put through, following the extensive chemotherapy and the radiation treatments.

    The cancer patients need our good wishes and prayers, understanding, tolerance, moral support and encouragement at all times. As Charlotte has rightly put, the cancer patient has to display positive attitude about the disease, and should have the full determination, willingness, hope and courage to fight it out.

  • Jason, Mumbai/Kuwait

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    Dear Charlotte,
    It requires lot of courage and guts to write such an article. May God Bless You.
    The pictures which are posted itself shows the intesity of Breast Cancer Awarness around the Globe. The buildings which are Lit in Pink during the Breast Cancer Awarnes Month are White House (official residence of President of United States), Taj Hotel Mumbai, Burj Al Arab Dubai, Tokyo Tower, Leaning Tower Italy and Independent Tower Washington.

  • VINCENT CASTELINO, PERNAL / MUMBAI

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    Charlotte...Your article has given light to many people who were not aware of this "Life Threatening Disease". Many a times people are not so "Serious" about the repurcussions for not going for tests on time!!!. You have done a great job by sharing your own experience to many!! who can understand what it means on time. I am sure this "Disease" is growing at a very fast level in our country too. May be because of "Lack of Awareness". May God Bless You for a speedy recovery.

  • M.SHAMEEM ANSARI, BAHRAIN

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    GOD BLESS U ALL

  • Joseph F. Gonsalves, BAnnur, Puttur / Mangalore

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    I hope happiness, courage and prayers have done wonderful in your/Mrs. Charlotte’s life. My prayers are always there for every cancer patients, HIV, old aged, the widows and the abandoned children.
    Secondly, every mother should breast feed their children for at least one and half or two years. (Continuation for another year is left to them)
    Finally, every church should have a medical and a housing fund. What so rich a person may be, he is unable to pay cancer treatment expenditures, dialysis, HIV and some other diseases. This fund should not be diverted to any of the religious activities or construction of church or priests house. Housing is a grave problem of our brethren.

    Generous people should donate to such funds. If followed and operated wisely/vigorously will succeed and every one in the community will be happy. (The medical fund was in my mind for several years before and now recently the diocese introduced this medical fund fully operational. It is good to be operated in every church so that the whole community should not depend upon only one charitable institution Fr. Mullers Hospital Kankanady).
    May God bless all generous people and Mrs. Charlotte

    Dear N. Frank, India/Ksa, yours is a valuable source of information for the needy.

  • E . Pinto , Belthangady

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    Thanks for sharing your experience. May God bless you and your family.

  • shahnawaz kukkikatte, dubai/udupi

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    You have put your trust in God and God shallnot betray or foresake anyone who truste dthem. Our prayers are with you and you will be a complete and healthy woman nsoon. Cheers.. and speedy recovery madam.

  • C Dsouza, Bangalore

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    A moving and a thought provoking essay on Breast Cancer. Charlotte, you are a brave woman, it takes a lot of courage to fight this deadly ailment and then to share those experience with people around. thanks, for enlightening us, Charlotte.

  • Vincent Rego, Derebail / Kuwait

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    A big salute to you for being a brave woman, Charlete god is with you and he will protect you and your family always.

  • N. Frank, India/Ksa

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    I wish to add some additional info for those who are undergoing chemo.
    This is not related to breast cancer in particular, but cancer treatments in general.

    Those who have undergone the chemo treatment know, that it is not only painful to the needle for the medicine to the veins, but also the veins get weak and unusable in future.

    To avoid this, a chemo port is now available, (Approx cost
    RS. 21,000/- plus special needle cost, approx Rs 540/= plus applicable surgery charges)

    This port is implanted below the neck bone by minor surgery. This port becomes operational 10 days after surgery.

    The advantage is, it normally is designed to work for 2 years just one prick and needle can be kept till discharge from hospital and there is no need to needles on different veins every time injections via vein are given.

    More information and advantages/disadvantages of the chemo port can be known better by talking with your oncologist.

    Thank you.

  • Margaret Rego, Mangalore, Kuwait

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    Thanks for sharing this very informative article Charlotte,which will help the women folks to be vigilant. Hats off to you dear for the courage, patience and pain you are going through. Hoping and praying so that all family members of the patients who are going thru similar trauma may get support and loving care as you. Take courage and our prayers are always there for you. May God bless you and heal you completely so that you along with your family may enjoy a long life with good health. Continue to have faith in God and He will not abandon you.

  • Declan, Mumbai

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    Keep it up Charlotte ! Not only have you shown strength of spirit, character and faith but you have become an inspiration for people who are faced with similar challenges in life. Your faith will heal you - God's words.

  • Daniel, Mangalore

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    Thanks for the information,Really your courage as to be appretiated,God bless you,I will pray for you.
    Your faith will surely cure you.

  • LAVINA , M'lore/Dubai

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    Informative Article. Dear Charlotte, you have helped others by making them to take precautions or atleast to be aware of the symptoms of cancer before they attack. Thank you so much. You are blessed always.

  • ashu & Sunita, bantakal/dubai

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    Dear Charlotte,
    Thank you somuch for this informative article about breast cancer.You are really brave,We salute your fighting spirit. May god bless you and your family. We assure our prayers for your speedy recovery.

  • Bennet Vas, Mangalore

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    A very well written article, simply superb in it's content and very inforamtive for us lay people. May God give you and your family the strength to bear this suffering and cure you completely. More things are wrought by PRAYER than this world dreams off ...

  • Bala K. Suvarna, Malpe / Kuwait

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    It is said," If you have faith as small as a mustard seed,you can move mountains." I am sure with your mountain faith, you will be able to move this rock from your body. we are always there with you in your joy and sorrow.

  • charmaine, Mangalore/Chandigarh

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    Charlotte get well soon, and thanks a million for sharing your experience and creating an awareness about this disease which has been affecting millions world wide.

  • Walter, Mumbai/Kuwait

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    You have been an inspiration for others. I always admire you & your husband as one of perfect couple living a daily life. GOD bless you sharlet & your husband (Noel) too for helping you and being with you sincerly, lovingly all throughtout your pain. Hats offs to you Noel for attending to your younger son at times both as a father and a mother. GOD bless your childrens too.
    Readers (Men) please take a lesson or two from Noel on how to be a loving & caring husband and a caring & loving father too keeping together all other family members too.

    GOD Bless you all.

  • Dianez, Mlore/Muscat

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    Thank you Charlotte fir sharing your experience. Very informative article. May God bless you abundantly and keep you in His care always!!

  • maxi & lorna, mumbai

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    Dear Charlotte we did not know that our child has become so bold & courageous and is ready to share her experiences with the whole world. God bless u dear u r in our prayers always. We want to see u hale and hearty to enjoy all that life has in store for u. We know that u will surely fight for the sake of ur children and ur husband & ur family and not give up. God bless Wilfy who takes so much care of u.All will be well dear. Lorna aunt & max uncle

  • Tressy Cutinho, Kaikamba/Kuwait

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    Dear Charlotte,
    Thanks a lot dear for writing such an informative article about breast cancer and for spreading awareness to millions of people around the world. We have been praying for you from the day I came to know about you and will continue praying, nothing is impossible to God. You are a very sweet, loving & smiling lady, a role model, be positive always and God will give you that extra strength and will protect you always. God bless you, Noel and your children.

  • Annet Castelino, Pernal/Kuwait

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    Very informative... God give you strength to what you are going through...Believe me an eye opener for all ladies.

  • Rita Rodrigues, Kuwait

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    Thank you Charlotte for sharing your brave fight in a positive manner against breast cancer. This detailed article will be an inspiration to many women in the world. You and the other sufferers of any form of cancer will be in my prayers. May GOD bless you and heal you from every particle of cancer cells from your body. May you live a long and healthy life for your children, husband and the entire family.

  • Sr. Carmel Ann, Mangalore

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    I am proud of you dear Charlotte. I know you will not give up the fight. God is with you.

  • Bulsam, Mangalore

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    It was very informative indeed. Being mentally strong you will overcome it. May God help you completely cure this dangerously mutated and rapidly multiplying genetic disease? God bless!

  • PETER DSOUZA, BOLKUNJE/MANGALORE

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    Dear Charlotte, thank you for this enlightening article. May all who read be profoundly benefited. I admire your courage in sharing your experiences. I pray that you may be completely cured through the intercession of St.Padre Pio who is the patron of those suffering from cancer. Continue with fortitude and courage.

  • Leena Mathias, Pilar, Shirva / Qatar

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    Thanks very much Charlotte for sharing your story. It's very informative and you are a role model for women suffering with this disease. May God Bless you abundantly so that, you can continue your great task for the near future as well. With prayers and blessings - Leena

  • Philomena Lobo, Kulshekar/Bahrain

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    Thanks and Praise be to God Charlote for his mercy. Thank you so much for sharing your experience with women all over. Your courage is exemplary. God Bless you and all the women afflicted by breast cancer or other forms of cancer. You will always be remembered in our prayers. Take care and God Bless you.

  • Julia/kuwait, Shirva

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    Dear Charlotte,

    Nice article and advisable to all the women. While reading tears came in my eyes. God is great Charlotte, I will keep you in my prayers. Good luck and take care.

  • ALEX CARDIN, KUWAIT

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    Thanks Charlotte for giving this beautiful inportant article & I will prayed for your speed recovery

  • Jenny, Mangalore

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    May God Bless you dear. I will keep you in my prayers that Jesus may touch you and heal you completely.

  • Priya Saldanha, Shirthady/Kuwait

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    Thank you Charlotte for sharing this info. You are always in our prayers and we hope for your complete recovery. Trust in God and he will do the rest.

  • Rosy Fernandes, Goa

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    You are blessed Charlotte. Thank you for the information. God bless your family. Rejoice in the Lord for he has done great wonders.

  • Veronica Alva, Udupi/Dubai

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    Dear Charlotte,
    Thanks so much for sharing all the knowledge about breast cancer with us readers.Its absolutely very informative and must read article by everyone which will help everyone to get timely awareness about breast cancer.By writing this article you have definitely saved many lives.Hats off to you for your bravery and taking out time to write this article.I assure my prayers for your speedy recovery.May you live long.Best wishes & prayers
    Veronica.Dubai

  • DK, Karkal

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    Hats off to u Maam...Ur Strength is ur posotiveness towards life and ur family...Take care....u will be in my prayers..iam sure u will overcome from cancer....

  • Theresa Lobo, Pezar - Sharjah

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    Dear Chalotte, tears came down from my eye sreading in detail about your braveness in fighting breast cancer. I prayed to God to touch and heal you completely. Thank you very much for briefing in detail about the treatments. God bless you and your family.

  • veena, Bondel/Kuwait

    Mon, Oct 24 2011

    Dear Charlotte very informative article!! i truly admire you and wilfy!!! God bless you!!! Our prayers are always with you!!

  • Wilson Saldanha, Shirthady/ Kuwait

    Sun, Oct 23 2011

    Very informative article Charlotte. We salute your braveness to fight against cancer and pray for speedy recovery. Hats off to your husband Noel. His patience towards this is unbelievable and out of normal persons imagination. I wish every family should have support of a person like him. God bless you all.

  • Kumar Fernandes, Mudarangadi/Dubai

    Sun, Oct 23 2011

    Dear Charlotte Cutinha, Thank you for the detailed article and the message of awareness to all in the world. Really you are blessed with support and prayer of all. Your courage and belief in God will cure your disease completely and enjoy you life. God Bless you.

  • Martis, Kankanady

    Sun, Oct 23 2011

    You are strong, you are invinsible, go Girl keep up the spirit and thanks for lifting others spirits too with a simple selfless action. At a time when people think twice about coming out of the closet you will remain an inspiration to me to help others too with this article and your experience of strength. It would be really thoughtful if awareness would have been spread via seminars & through school curiculum or a matter of fact our church would also be a good platform about this matter. Cause cancer affecting individuals have got no age boundary, its very painful when patients get aware about cancer when they have already progressed further into the disease. Inital awareness can definitely cure this blown out of proportion disease. You will be definitely in my daily prayers & I know you will get well soon so others can look up to you as an inspiration. Looking forward for more articles from you. Cheers to you once again!!

  • George D' Souza, Bejai / Abu-Dhabi

    Sun, Oct 23 2011

    Dear Charlotte Cutinha thanks for writing and sharing such deatailed very informative true story of your life about breast cancer. You are really kind hearted and want to share this medical knowledge with others. Tears in my eyes and I prayed for your speedy recovery. I will ask my wife to go thru this valuable information. Believe in God, take care and God bless you.

  • Pauline V, Balman / Mumbai

    Sun, Oct 23 2011

    Thank you Charlotte for sharing your story with women around the world. You are a fighter and we get immence strength from people like you. You are blessed with support from so many well wishers so hang in there. Will keep you in our prayers and you will overcome the hurdles and enjoy your family and friends for many years to come. Yours in prayers - Pauline


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Title: Fighting Breast Cancer with Determination



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