Karen Lam
In celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Karen shares her story with Breast Cancer and how it is like having roles reversed and living in the perspective of a patient.
Tell us about yourself.
Hello, I am Karen Lam, a model before I got married.
"During this period, I was surrounded by a lot of love and positive energy. Therefore, I always tell myself that I am never alone and I’ll be strong to fight for them."
Share with us a little bit about your journey with Breast Cancer. When & how did you first discover you had Breast Cancer?
There was a benign tumor in my body a long time ago, however I took it lightly and left it untreated. In addition, my life and work schedule were irregular at that time, which allowed the tumor to manifest over time and was later diagnosed as Breast Cancer. It has been 10 years since the discovery of breast cancer to the onset of the disease and recovery, and now my life has returned to normal.
How has it changed you, the roles you play, and your life in general?
After I was diagnosed, my family and friends took a lot of time to accompany me through the early nights and exercise routines. As my lifestyle changed, theirs did too.
"Remember to go for yearly check ups, and if diagnosed, face the cancer with positivity as I believe that 'attitude determines destiny'."
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced throughout this journey?
The biggest challenge I faced was my own psychological concerns. Coming from a model background, I love beauty and am very particular about my image. At the beginning, I had concerns about removing the tumor. But with the support of my husband and friends, I managed to overcome these barriers and maintained a positive attitude to face the cancer.
What are some of the motivating factors that powered you through all these challenges?
Family & friends were my cheerleaders; my greatest encouragement and source of motivation. Many of my friends referred me to their doctor contacts, and my husband deprioritized his work and stayed by my side throughout the entire journey. During this period, I was surrounded by a lot of love and positive energy. Therefore, I always tell myself that I am never alone and I’ll be strong to fight for them.
I also experimented with many false eyelashes and wigs, mixed and matched many styles, and found myself liking bright, loose-fitting maxi skirts. Dressing up has definitely helped to regain and boost my self-confidence.
Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently?
I would definitely choose to have a more balanced lifestyle - get ample rest, exercise regularly, and have fun in moderation. And also care for my emotional needs.What do you look forward to most next?
What do you look forward to most next?
Travelling again around the world, with my husband! I’m content with my married life. I would also love to continue to dance till I’m old; modern ballet is my hobby.
What’s one advice you’d share with the #LBCommunity women about Breast Cancer awareness?
To pay more attention to food nutrition labels and choose to eat healthily.
What’s one word of encouragement you’d give for all the women in their Breast Cancer recovery journey?
A doctor told me that breast cancer is the easiest cancer disease with a higher chance of recovery. Remember to go for yearly check ups, and if diagnosed, face the cancer with positivity as I believe that “attitude determines destiny”. We will power through this together.
