‘Cancer-vivor’ shares her journey

DESPITE being left shattered after she was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer four years ago, Thila Miller, remained confident that she would be able to say the words, ‘I am a cancer-(sur)vivor’.

As we commemorate international cancer survivors month this June, Miller hopes to inspire others battling cancer to remain positive and hopeful.

Miller, 51, who lives on The Bluff, said she has been in remission since 2021.

“This was the best news and it puts a smile on my face every time I say, ‘I am a cancervivor’, however, it was not an easy journey,” she said.

Miller, who is a dietitian, said she was diagnosed after she felt a lump in her breast in 2019.

“The news was shattering, however, I made the decision to share the news with my immediate family and close friends early in the diagnosis. Sharing with this intimate group was both devastating and amazing.

“Devastating in the realisation of my sudden proximity to death, and amazing in the outpour of love, care, and active support from all of them and even their pets,” she said.

ALSO READ: #BreastCancerSurvivor: I thank God for my scars

Miller said through the difficult days that followed her diagnosis, she remained determined to fight.

“Chemotherapy made me extremely ill, but I continued to affirm that I was a fighter, a conqueror, and an overcomer of this debilitating disease. Cancer takes so much from a person and not just physically, but I was determined that cancer was not going to change the essence of who I am, “she said.

Miller said at her weakest point, both physically and mentally, she set herself some lofty goals and worked towards them.

“My spiritual self was stronger, and set out a plan. One of my goals was to drive myself to radiation daily, which was a trip of 15 km each way for five long weeks. Success was achieved with small attempts on a regular basis with a lot of support and encouragement.

“I also mentally chatted to myself daily to motivate and encourage some progress, even little steps counted. I also decided to walk, as I enjoyed it and it was an easy-going exercise regimen,” she said.

ALSO READ: Why early cancer detection means better upfront treatment

Miller said the right support from loved ones can also play a great role in one’s journey.

“Each cancer journey is unique, and complicated. Some of us see our journey as deeply intimate and will share only what we want to, while others may require massive support with lots of involvement from close and distant friends and family,” she said.
Miller said her advice to those battling cancer, is to ‘hang in there’.

“There is a goal, a light, it’s not always visible, but give yourself the space and time to see it. You should also appreciate being alive and put your best wish out to the universe,” she said.

Miller, who is the chairperson of Merewent Cancer Group, an affiliate of the Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa), said she encouraged people to join a support group.

“The group was formed by concerned citizens in Merebank in 2019. There are many diagnosed with cancer within our communities who do not receive love, compassion, or support.

“They also need assistance with transport, and food, among other needs. We are here to support people with cancer in our community, educate our community about this disease and lastly to spread our love to others,” she said.

For more Southlands Sun news, follow us on Facebook or Twitter. You can also follow us on Instagram.