Breast cancer kills thousands of Malaysian women every year, and the numbers are rising fast. Spreading awareness is becoming more important in this day and age where cancer rates are going up at alarming rates.
One woman who has been making headway in breast cancer advocacy is activist and coach, Naliza Fahro-Rozi. She is not only the Vice President of one of the oldest breast cancer associations in Malaysia, Breast Cancer Welfare Association (BCWA), but also a breast cancer survivor herself.
Here’s her story about how she went to war with cancer and won.
Not Her First Brush with Death
Naliza is no stranger when it comes to near-death experiences. Before she was diagnosed with HER-2 breast cancer in February of 2020, she suffered an ischaemic stroke—a lethal condition that cuts off blood flow to the brain.
Thankfully, she survived. But then, she later received news that would change her life forever.
As someone who has lost friends and family members to cancer, Naliza knows the disease intimately, like a familiar foe. But Naliza is no meagre opponent. She took charge immediately and went on the offense, guns blazing.
Naliza underwent a mastectomy in March 2020, to remove her right breast and 13 lymph nodes under her right arm, where her cancer had spread to.
All of this was happening while we were in the thick of the COVID-19 pandemic too. But Naliza did not let this become an obstacle. She persevered in her healing journey, refusing to succumb to the very disease that has claimed the lives of so many people she loved.
In April 2020, she started her cancer treatments at a specialist hospital in Kuala Lumpur. After almost 2 years of fighting, she is now declared cancer free.
“I underwent 16 cycles of chemotherapy, 15 fractions of radiotherapy and 18 cycles of targeted chemo. I felt like I was wrestling in WWF or fighting in ONE Championship.”
Through Triumphs and Tears
Chemo was brutal. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, joint pains, hot flushes and chronic fatigue—these were just the tip of the iceberg. But Naliza powered through the side effects. At the same time, she did not forget to enjoy her time with loved ones.
Even through all the sorrows she still manages to prioritise her wellbeing. Sharing her experience online including the many lifestyle changes she had to make to cope with the cancer.
For instance, on top of her conventional cancer treatments, Naliza also underwent Electro Lymphatic Therapy and used essential oils to deal with the painful side effects of chemotherapy. She also took supplements like COQ10, vitamin C, vitamin B, fish oils, magnesium, and probiotics to boost her health.
While on chemo, Naliza started on her clean-eating journey—adopting a neutropenic diet. She also managed to squeeze in some exercise and activist work in between treatments like the fighter that she is.
Here’s a photo of her going on a breast cancer awareness walk:
Sharing her Story with the World
Naliza is one of the very few cancer advocates who has used her considerable influence and platform to spread a message not only of wisdom but of hope too.
She was featured on various talks, seminars, news articles and PSAs on breast cancer awareness—a responsibility she undertook with grace and gravitas, despite still in the thick of her cancer treatments.
Her Instagram is filled with motivational posts, and updates from her relatively new role as the Vice President of the Breast Cancer Welfare Association; a designation she earned in March of 2022. She now regularly attends peer counselling sessions to spread her wisdom to those who need it. And to provide comfort, support and a sense of community.
Naliza was also a guest writer on Malaysia Gazzette’s “Story Lah” column since April 2021 where she penned down her entire cancer experience. From the treatments she endured to the debilitating side effects. Her candid confessions and honest musings on mortality, legacy, and survival was an eye-opening exposé on what life was truly like from the eyes of a cancer fighter.
“Cancer is a word, not a sentence”
Naliza is a glowing example of what happens when preparation meets persistence. To her, cancer is but one chapter in the story of her life. It does not define her.
As the Vice President of the Breast Cancer Welfare Association, surviving cancer is definitely a jewel in her crown. She is now on a fast road to recovery.
Even now, months after winning her fight against cancer, she is still fiercely advocating for breast cancer awareness—urging all women to get tested and to not be afraid of getting cancer treatment.
She continues to be a beacon of hope for many women who are struggling with breast cancer to this day.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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