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Finding Love After Breast Cancer: A Gentle Guide for Single Survivors

Breast cancer can strike unexpectedly, often without warning. For Tracy*, a 53-year-old mother of four and passionate hobbyist potter, a routine MRI changed everything. What began as curiosity about advanced screening became a journey of discovery, courage, and empowerment - showing that knowledge, vigilance, and support can make all the difference in living well after cancer.Please share your name, age, and a little about yourself. My name is Tracy, I’m 53 years old, a mother of four boys, and a hobbyist potter.Can you tell us about your journey with breast cancer — how you first discovered it and what went through your mind at diagnosis? I had no physical symptoms and no family history of breast cancer. Living abroad, I had been told during regular mammogram screenings that my dense breast tissue was common and “nothing to worry about,” though I was advised to continue six-monthly mammograms.These frequent screenings were inconvenient, so when I read that MRI was considered the “gold standard” for dense breasts, I decided to try it while visiting Singapore. I expected a clear MRI that would allow me to reduce the frequency of mammograms.My doctor at Solis was curious why I wanted an MRI, as my mammogram and ultrasound showed nothing concerning, but she agreed to order it. To my surprise, the MRI revealed a suspicious non-mass enhancement in my right breast, visible only on MRI. A biopsy followed, initially showing atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH), which surgery later upgraded to Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS).Within two weeks, I went from reassurance to shock. I questioned why this had happened to me despite having no risk factors or symptoms. I berated myself for assuming the MRI would be clear and panicked over how much time I might have left with my children and husband. Why me?What was your biggest concern or worry at that time, and how did you go about finding information or support? My foremost concern was to remove all the traces of cancer from my body. I followed my doctor’s advice and underwent radiotherapy and endocrine therapy. I read every report, learned every medical term, asked informed questions, and explored ways to reduce the risk of recurrence. Knowledge became my way of regaining control. What helped you find strength during your treatment and recovery? I was mostly alone in Singapore with one of my sons who was serving National Service, while my husband and other sons remained abroad. But my extended family and friends came out in full force for me. They jostled to accompany me to doctor visits and radiotherapy sessions, waited for me before and after surgery, surrounded me with prayers, nourished me with food, and gave me space to cry and ruminate — always making sure I knew I was not alone.What does “survivorship” mean to you, and how do you define “living well” after cancer? Survivorship means living intentionally. It has been just over a year since my diagnosis, and I take comfort in knowing the cancer was localised and treated accordingly.This experience has taught me to live more purposefully – to see each encounter and interaction as a meaningful step toward the next chapter of my life. Each year of living cancer-free is a blessing and an accomplishment.I’ve also become more conscious of my lifestyle. I now eat less red meat and focus on more vegetables, fruits, legumes, and soy. Taking ownership of my health feels empowering.How has this experience changed your outlook on life, family, or work? I’ve learned to let go of control and trust that life is molded through challenges, much like clay on my pottery wheel. Every experience shapes us. I now focus on what truly matters: meaningful relationships, gratitude and moments of joy.What advice would you give to other women going through a similar journey - or to young women about breast health and screening? Many Asian women have dense breast tissue, which can make cancer hard to detect. Family history and lack of symptoms do not guarantee safety. Be proactive, ask questions, and ensure your screening is thorough. Trust the expertise of your surgeons, radiologists interpreting your scans, and pathologists – and trust your instincts.What mantra or lesson do you carry with you today? Know and trust your gut instinct. If something seems off or keeps bothering you, ask questions until you find peace of mind.From diagnosis through treatment and into survivorship, Tracy’s story reminds us that life after cancer is not just about recovery - it’s about reclaiming control, finding purpose, and living fully. With determination, knowledge, and the support of loved ones, survivors can face uncertainty with confidence and grace. Her journey is a testament to resilience and the power of trusting oneself – inspiring others to prioritise their health, seek understanding, and define their own path to living well. *Name has been changed to protect the individual’s privacy.
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Heart Health and Breast Cancer: Why It Matters

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women, while cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death among women in Singapore. Together, they account for a large proportion of morbidity and mortality. The important thing to note is that they are connected in many ways, especially for breast cancer patients and survivors.The strong link between heart health and cancer has led to the growth of cardio-oncology - a multidisciplinary approach dedicated to protecting the heart throughout the cancer journey and improving long-term survival for cancer survivors at higher risk of heart disease.¹Why Breast Cancer Survivors Are at Higher Heart Risk Treatment-related cardiac effects of cancer therapy play a major role. Some common breast cancer treatments can affect heart health: Anthracycline chemotherapy (e.g. doxorubicin) is linked to heart damage.² Risk increases with higher cumulative doses and in patients with pre-existing cardiovascular risk factors. Trastuzumab (Herceptin) can affect cardiac function, especially when combined with other agents that affect the heart.² Unlike anthracyclines, trastuzumab-related heart dysfunction is often reversible when detected early. Radiotherapy, especially to the left side of the chest, can unintentionally affect the heart.² Modern techniques have reduced but not eliminated this risk. These effects may not appear immediately; slow, cumulative damage can develop years after treatment.²Heart-Healthy StrategiesA. Stay Active Physical activity is one of the most powerful ways to reduce cardiovascular risk after breast cancer³: Survivors who are physically active have a significantly lower risk of cardiovascular death and all-cause mortality.³ Even adding ~2,500 extra steps per day or moderate exercise can reduce risk.³ Guideline recommendation: According to the Health Promotion Board (HPB) and World Health Organisation, aim for at least 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity per week, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity, plus strength training on 2 days/week.³B. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet Nutrition plays a key role in cardiovascular health: Diets similar to DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) or Mediterranean patterns are associated with lower risk of heart disease in breast cancer survivors.⁴ Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, while minimising processed foods, added sugars, and excessive salt.⁴ This supports healthy blood pressure and overall heart function.C. Monitor Key Risk Factors Regular monitoring of cardiovascular risk factors is essential: Blood pressure Blood cholesterol Blood sugar Weight Physical inactivity Smoking status These factors contribute to cancer-related heart risk and can often be improved through lifestyle changes or medication.²D. Work with Your Healthcare Team Collaborating with oncology and cardiology teams improves outcomes¹,²: Tailored cardiovascular risk assessments before, during, and after treatment - including heart imaging (such as echocardiograms) and functional evaluations when appropriate - help detect issues early.² Shared-care models that involve oncologists, cardiologists, primary care, and rehabilitation professionals achieve the best long-term results.¹E. Consider Structured Rehabilitation Some programmes, called Cardio-Oncology Rehabilitation (CORE), integrate cardiovascular and cancer survivorship care¹,³: Exercise training Nutritional counselling Psychological support Education on risk factors Smoking cessation support These programmes are similar to traditional cardiac rehabilitation programmes but adapted for cancer survivors, and can reduce long-term heart risk and support overall health.Summary Breast cancer survivors face elevated long-term risk for cardiovascular disease due to treatment effects and shared risk factors.1,2 The good news is that this risk can be managed and reduced through: Regular physical activity³ Heart-healthy eating⁴ Routine monitoring of cardiovascular risk factors² Close collaboration with healthcare providers¹ Many cancer centres and breast surgeons in Singapore now work closely with cardiologists to monitor heart health during and after treatment. With proactive care, breast cancer survivors can improve long-term heart health and overall quality of life.Article reviewed by Dr Benji Lim, Interventional Cardiologist at Novena Heart Centre.References Mehta LS, Watson KE, Barac A, Beckie TM, Bittner V, Cruz-Flores S, et al. Cardiovascular disease and breast cancer: where these entities intersect: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association. Circulation. 2018;137(8):e30-e66. doi:10.1161/CIR.0000000000000556. Epub 2018 Feb 1. PMID: 29437116. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29437116/ Bostany G, Chen Y, Francisco L, et al. Cardiac dysfunction among breast cancer survivors: role of cardiotoxic therapy and cardiovascular risk factors. J Clin Oncol. 2025;43(1):32-45. PMID: 38833638. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38833638/ Wilson OWA, Wojcik KM, Cohen CM, Kamil D, Butera G, Matthews CE , Dieli-Conwright CM , Jayasekera J, et al. Exercise and cardiovascular health among breast cancer survivors: a scoping review. Cardio-Oncology. 2025;11:24. PMID: 40012001. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40012001/ Vo JB, Ramin C, Veiga LHS, Brandt C, Curtis RE, Bodelon C, Barac A, Roger VL, Feigelson HS, Buist DSM, Bowles EJA, Gierach GL, González ABE, et al. Dietary patterns and cardiovascular risk in breast cancer survivors. J Natl Cancer Inst. 2024;[Epub ahead of print]. PMID: 38718210. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38718210/
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The Gentle Power of Gratitude: How Saying Thanks Can Brighten the Journey Ahead

As the year draws to a close, it’s natural to pause, look back on what you’ve overcome, and look ahead to what’s to come. Between juggling family commitments, catching up with friends, and trying to carve out quiet spaces for yourself, your days may have felt full and fast. Amidst the busyness and the emotional ups and downs, it’s easy to overlook the small stitches that quietly hold your story together and carry you forward. This festive season, let’s explore how cultivating gratitude can be a gentle gift to yourself. Why Giving Space for Gratitude MattersFor those navigating the rocky waves of the breast cancer journey, feeling thankful can sometimes feel out of reach. Whether you’re managing lingering treatment side effects or adjusting to your new normal beyond cancer, you’re coping with challenges that extend beyond everyday stressors. In moments when uncertainty looms, carving out space for self-reflection can feel especially difficult.Yet research shows that practising gratitude can support emotional well-being and quality of life—improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety [1] [2] [3]. Gratitude doesn’t erase hardship, but it can become a quiet strength woven through your healing process. Finding Light in Small MomentsGratitude isn’t about pretending things are easy or forcing positivity. Instead it’s a grounding tool–a meaningful companion you can lean on during overwhelming days.It’s the gentle act of refocusing your perspective and noticing the small things that made the year feel a little softer: warm conversations, friendships that held you up, milestones like completing a follow-up appointment, or even the comfort of a favourite meal [4]. Gratitude doesn’t need to be saved for special occasions or big breakthroughs [4].  You can weave it into daily life, little by little, reminding yourself that even in difficult seasons, life still holds pockets of goodness.Simple Ways to Practise GratitudeExpressing and internalising gratitude may feel unfamiliar at first. But like any habit, it gets easier with gentle repetition. Setting aside even a minute or two each day can help you build the practice slowly–like knitting a sweater, one careful stitch at a time.Here are four ways to invite gratitude into your everyday moments: Start a Gratitude Journal Write down a few things you’re thankful for, no matter how small. Some days, even the simple act of waking up and getting dressed for the day is worth acknowledging.Whether on paper or digitally, this practice encourages mindful reflection and can help lower stress and depressive symptoms over time [3].What you write becomes a comforting reference–something you can return to on tougher days when you need a reminder of how far you’ve come [4].Express Thanks Out Loud Taking a moment to thank someone–your care team, a family member, a friend, or even the friendly hawker stall aunty–can brighten your day and theirs.Intentionally showing appreciation helps strengthen meaningful connections and fosters a sense of emotional support [4] [5].Write a Letter or Thank-You Note If expressing gratitude verbally seems daunting, writing it down can be a gentle alternative [1]. Think of someone who has supported you in your journey, and write why you’re grateful for them.This can be a message to someone dear–or even a letter to yourself, reflecting on your own strength, resilience, and growth.Take a Gratitude Walk Step outside and notice simple joys: the warmth of sunshine, flowers in bloom, or children laughing in the playground.Changing your surroundings can offer a calming pause and help you engage in grateful contemplation, making room for fresh perspectives when cancer feels ever-present and everyday stressors feel heavy [5] [6].These gentle practices aren’t about doing more–they’re about noticing more and appreciating the things that often go unseen.Everyone’s relationship with gratitude is deeply personal. For some it can be a helpful tool; for others, it may feel difficult or uneven at times. There’s no “right” way to be grateful. What matters most is finding what supports you on your unique path.A Closing NoteAt Solis and Luma, we believe survivorship isn’t a destination but a journey woven from many moments. Some are bright, some are challenging–but each one is a part of your story. It’s in these moments, stitched together by courage, hope and gratitude, that healing takes shape. As we turn the page to a new year, may you find comfort in the small things that carried you through 2025, and strength in the ones still to come. In your patchwork tapestry of healing, it’s these gentle threads of gratitude that strengthen every stitch, every patch, every seam. References[1] International Journal of Women's Health, A Grateful Disposition Promotes the Well-Being of Women with Breast Cancer Through Adaptive Coping[2]  Frontiers in Psychology, Using a Gratitude Intervention to Improve the Lives of Women With Breast Cancer: A Daily Diary Study[3]  Current Oncology, Effects of Gratitude Journaling on Patients with Breast Cancer: A Randomized Controlled Trial [4] Cleveland Clinic, 7 Ways To Boost Your Health by Practicing Gratitude[5] Journal of Happiness Studies, The Role of Gratitude in Breast Cancer: Its Relationships with Post-traumatic Growth, Psychological Well-Being and Distress [6] International journal of environmental research and public health, Wondering Awe Is the Mediator of the Link Between Experience of Nature and Psychological Wellbeing—Relevance for Public Health
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