Jane’s Story
Faith Through the Storm: My Journey Battling Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
My name is Jane Njoroge, and as I reflect on my journey, I am filled with profound gratitude and humility. The path I have walked has been anything but easy. Battling triple-negative breast cancer has profoundly tested my faith, my strength, and the very essence of who I am. Yet, through every challenge and tear, God has been my steadfast anchor, guiding me through the darkest moments, renewing my hope each day, and surrounding me with an incredible network of support.
This journey is not merely about the trials I’ve endured; it is about the unwavering faith that has carried me through the storm. It is about finding strength in the most trying times and believing wholeheartedly that God has a purpose for every step we take. My hope in sharing this story is to inspire anyone who is facing a similar struggle or supporting someone who is. May my story serve as a testament to the power of faith, the resilience of the human spirit, and the remarkable grace that can be found even in life’s most daunting challenges.
On March 14, 2023, my life took an unexpected and dramatic turn. Just after celebrating my 40th birthday and completing my Nursing Degree, I was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer. What was supposed to be the beginning of a new and promising chapter in my life quickly became a battle for survival. The news was overwhelming, and I was engulfed by a storm of fear, anger, and confusion. I struggled to comprehend why this was happening to me, especially at a time when I had so much to look forward to. For two agonising weeks, I wrestled with these emotions and questioned my faith, trying to make sense of the situation. It was through God’s grace and the unwavering support of my family and friends that I began to find a sense of peace and acceptance.
One of the most profound sources of strength during this challenging time was my 5-year-old son, Chege. When he noticed that something was wrong with me, he innocently asked, “Mummy, are you sick?” When I said yes, his immediate response was to pray, “God bless mummy, God heal mummy.” Chege’s simple yet powerful prayer reminded me of the profound impact of faith, even in its most innocent form. His words became a source of comfort and a beacon of hope, renewing my determination to fight this battle—not just for myself but for him and for the future that I still believe God has planned for us.
My treatment journey has been an intense and demanding experience. It has involved 16 rounds of chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, and 30 weeks of radiotherapy. I am also preparing for upcoming surgeries, including a saplingo-oophorectomy (removal of fallopian tubes and ovaries) and breast reconstruction at the end of the year. Each phase of my treatment has taken a significant toll on my body and my spirit. Despite the physical and emotional challenges, I am deeply grateful for the support I have received from my treatment team, my family, and my friends both in Australia and around the world.
Throughout this experience, I have learned the importance of caring for both our bodies and our minds. Maintaining a healthy diet, resting adequately, and nurturing our spirits are crucial in this journey. This battle has been as much about mental and emotional resilience as it has been about physical endurance. I am committed to continuing this fight with unwavering faith, trusting in God’s plan, and seeking to inspire others who may be facing their own battles.
The spirit of Harambee, which means “All pull together,” has been a cornerstone of my journey. The support from the Kenyan community in Western Australia and people around the world has been both humbling and heartwarming. The collective efforts of this community have provided not only financial assistance but also emotional and spiritual support throughout my journey. This unity and solidarity have been a source of great strength and encouragement to me any my family. I hope to give back and make a positive impact with my story, reflecting the support and strength I have received.
In conclusion, I want to encourage everyone reading this to prioritise your own well-being. You are the most important person in your life, and taking care of your health and well-being is the greatest gift you can give yourself. Life is incredibly short, yet we often waste so much time on trivial things—worrying, complaining, gossiping, comparing ourselves to others, or always wanting something bigger and better. We overlook the simple blessings that surround us each day. Life is so fragile, and it only takes a moment for everything we take for granted to change. It’s important to focus on what truly matters and be grateful for what you have. You are blessed—believe it, embrace it, and live your life without regrets.
Although I cannot predict what the future holds, I am confident that with God by my side, I can face whatever comes my way. To all who have walked this journey with me, I extend my heartfelt thanks. Your love and support have been a guiding light in the darkness, and I pray that God blesses each of you abundantly and meets your needs immensely.
Share Your Story
Are you a patient of the PBCI and would like to share your story with breast cancer as part of our Stories of Hope series on our website and Newsletter?
We love hearing our patient’s stories and sharing them with others at the very beginning of theirs. For more information on how to be involved, contact us.
