Aneega, Maldives
Did Cancer Upend MY LIFE?
For 25 years, I’ve asked myself this question. The answer often changes. Cancer profoundly disrupted and turned my family’s life, altering our routine and future plans. Living as a very small family in a foreign country, separated from relatives and friends, made the journey even more challenging. Yet, cancer connected us with a vast network of people. As a caregiver, I supported individuals in various stages of cancer diagnoses, treatment and illness, offering my time and compassion with the unwavering support of my husband and son.
Sadly, many people taking treatment were in the final stages of cancer. Therefore, I faced unexpected responsibilities, such as dealing with government bureaucracy while organizing funerals - experiences that deeply shaped me. The most personal upheaval came when cancer struck my family. Instead of asking “Why us?” I drew strength from a cancer survivor’s comment in mind that the experiences I had as a cancer caregiver was to prepare me for this day. I approached the journey with faith and hope, knowing and accepting healing is within Allah’s Will and His Mercy and not something within my control.
Over the years, advancement in cancer research, detection and treatment has brought hope. My involvement in the Cancer Society of Maldives (CSM) programs further deepened my understanding of cancer. Through my past and present experiences, my ‘family’ expanded to include every single person I cared for and, their loved ones. During my family’s second cancer upheaval, CSM and Cancer Support Group (CSG) became a lifeline. Especially when we had to leave family and friends for cancer treatment during the global Covid pandemic, when the world was in shut down mode. The encouragement and unity of this community have been invaluable, providing strength and purpose. Weekly meetings, both in person and online since the covid pandemic continue to offer invaluable psycho-social support to all involved, fostering resilience and connection on this shared journey.