The cover of "My Tenth Life" authored by Dr Susan Ngure [ Courtesy, Mose Sammy/ Standard]

Ngure scheduled an appointment with an oncologist specialising in breast cancer. The doctor ordered a series of tests, including a diagnostic mammogram and biopsy. Then she settled into an agonising wait.

Finally, the day arrived when she received the phone call that would forever change her life. The diagnosis confirmed her fears; she had breast cancer. It was a daunting moment.

"My intuition had warned me to brace myself for the bad news, I was alone, he started with small talk and then informed me that my results were positive for breast cancer, she says.

She had terrible thoughts of death, then came the bruising battle with the disease. Luckily she had supportive family and friends.

She underwent surgery to remove the tumour, followed by a series of challenging chemotherapy sessions.

Throughout the entire process, she never lost sight of her determination to overcome the illness and inspire others.

"The lump was too heavy to carry around, it doubled in size every 100 days, two ladies let me cry on their shoulders," she says.

Now, as a thriving survivor, Dr Ngure has made it her mission to inspire and uplift others facing similar battles. She actively engages with cancer support groups, both online and offline, where she shares her story and words of encouragement.

"To many people, a cancer diagnosis is a death sentence, it sends shivers down the spine of not only the patient but the family too, treatment is long, it is vital to support a patient and family as feelings of depression and helplessness abound, I want everyone to know that a cancer diagnosis doesn't mean the end of one's life," she says.

As October is the Cancer Awareness Month, Ngure aims to spread a message of encouragement, reminding others that there is hope and life beyond a cancer diagnosis.

Dr Ngure stands strong as a breast cancer survivor, armed with newfound wisdom and a desire to change the narrative surrounding cancer care for young patients.

She encourages individuals to seek second opinions if they have doubts about their initial diagnosis and urges patients to proactively communicate with their healthcare providers to get accurate information.

"I want young patients to know that their voices matter, we should never be afraid to ask questions and seek clarity. I hope that my advocacy will contribute to a healthcare system that prioritises accurate diagnosis, reliable information, and effective communication and by raising awareness," she says.