Tackling storms head-on: A story of resilience and overcoming
Belinda Govender said the journey of overcoming cancer was gruelling. She not only lost her hair twice and underwent a mastectomy, but she endured countless injections, two types of chemotherapy, having to go on steroids and 30 sessions of radiation.
IN honour of Women’s Month, we shine a light on the remarkable journey of Belinda Govender, a resilient woman from Merebank whose unwavering strength and determination have made her a symbol of hope for many. Her story is one of courage, faith and an indomitable will to survive, even in the face of life’s most overwhelming challenges.
Also read: Recognising women: The resilient story of Tracey Williams
Belinda’s life changed dramatically in September 2018. What began as a seemingly insignificant lump in her right breast soon revealed itself to be far more serious. Alarmingly, the lump grew rapidly, and she was soon confronted with a devastating diagnosis: stage four breast cancer – a particularly aggressive form that had already spread to her lymph nodes. At 48 years old, this shocking news came as a blow, especially for someone who had always been physically fit with no family history of cancer.
Instead of succumbing to despair, Belinda chose to fight. “I’m generally a mentally strong person, and this time, my strength was truly tested,” she recalled. Despite the common association of cancer with death, she made a powerful declaration to herself: “I’m not going to die, but I will live.” This positive outlook became her guiding light throughout the gruelling treatment process as she refused to let negativity take hold.
Belinda’s battle with cancer was nothing short of gruelling. “I endured countless injections, two types of chemotherapy, with one known as the ‘Red Devil,’ steroids, and 30 sessions of radiation that left my body charred and scarred,” she shared. “I lost my hair twice, gained weight from the steroids, and underwent a mastectomy that left me with lasting physical reminders of everything I have been through.” She described cancer as a horrifying and terrifying experience that she wouldn’t wish on anyone. Yet, throughout it all, she never lost hope.
Her family – her husband of 28 years, Balan Govender, and their 24-year-old son, Nathanael – stood by her side as her pillars of support. “We cried together, but we also fought the battle in love and unity,” she said. Her employer, Intertek Testing Services SA, also played a crucial role in her recovery, offering much-needed emotional support during her darkest days.
Now, five years cancer-free, Belinda continues to inspire everyone around her. She passionately advises others, “Go for your regular check-ups and never miss your annual mammogram. It can save your life. Never take your health and life for granted, and never say ‘It will never happen to me.’ Storms come into our lives without warning.”
Belinda’s journey didn’t end with her recovery. As a preacher for the Methodist Church of SA in Montclair and a motivational speaker for over 15 years, she has dedicated her life to uplifting others. After being declared cancer-free, she returned to her mission with renewed energy, taking on the role of coordinator for all cancer-awareness initiatives at Intertek.
Belinda’s story is a powerful reminder of the incredible strength that lies within each of us, even when faced with life’s fiercest storms.
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