When Praveen was diagnosed with HER2 positive breast cancer in March last year, she recalls being a bit worried about telling her mother about it and how she may react. Her memories of speaking to people who had been diagnosed with cancer a couple of decades ago were often couched in expressions of shame and embarrassment.
“They were made to feel like this for having breast cancer! I was a bit worried how my mum would take it. However, she completely surprised me as she was so strong, stood by me and told me not to worry, it would be fine,” recalls Praveen.
“I remember her saying how common it (breast cancer) was, but that treatments now are really good. We do not have a family history, but my mum knew many women that have been through it. My husband fully supported me too and did everything to help,” she shares.
Now, over a year on as we mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, Praveen is commemorating her own one-year personal milestone of being given the all clear in October last year.
“I am feeling very grateful to reach this point and remind myself of the second chance I’ve been given. I am stronger, healthier and more appreciative than before.
“A year flies by and sometimes I can’t believe I went through all that or that am just getting on with life. Having said that, each date – diagnosis, chemo, surgery – still always takes me back to the day and how I felt; dealing with a rollercoaster of emotions most of the time.”
HER2 positive breast cancer is a type of breast cancer that grows and spreads faster because its cells have high levels of a protein called human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2). Praveen started chemotherapy within weeks of her diagnosis, then had a single mastectomy and finally radiotherapy. She was fortunate that her chemo worked extremely well, and she had a full pathological response to the treatment.
“I lost my hair, a boob and my identity all at the same time. It was an extremely difficult time for me, my family and my boys. However, I had so much support from everyone – family, friends, doctors and support staff. Despite going through all this, I’m so much happier and calmer in myself. I have a great appreciation for life and I’m grateful for a second chance,” she says.
Praveen has since joined hands with the London-based research and support charity Breast Cancer Now to spread awareness around the disease, specifically among those from her own South Asian background.
“Especially among the older generation, no one talks about cancer full stop. So, talking about breasts is a big no. Most girls growing up haven’t been shown how to check themselves, although part of this would be because they think it will never happen to them.
“GPs need to ensure enough guidance is given to help people. Places of worship could help in providing women-only workshops to discuss and speak freely,” says the Leicester-based mum.
Breast Cancer Now’s ‘Wear It Pink’ campaign this month is one such initiative that she hopes will help inject some much-needed momentum into cross-community efforts.
“As South Asian women, we care deeply for our families — but our health matters too. Within our communities, conversations about breast health can still feel difficult, but by wearing pink, we are breaking that silence. We are standing together for ourselves, our sisters, our mothers, our daughters. Raising awareness, encouraging screenings, and showing that hope and strength are stronger.”
Since she began speaking out, Praveen has had messages to ask her questions or share stories about people in their life going through a breast cancer diagnosis.
“Health issues like breast cancer aren’t always talked about openly. Some people feel scared, ashamed, or think they have to deal with it quietly or alone. I want to help break that silence by sharing my story. Early detection saves lives, and the more we talk about it, the more we can support each other and encourage regular checks,” she says.
Breast Cancer Now’s “Wear It Pink” day is one of the biggest fundraising events in the UK. Taking place during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, thousands are encouraged to wear pink in their communities, schools or workplaces for one of the UK’s largest breast cancer research charities. Its mission is to make sure that by 2050 everyone diagnosed with breast cancer lives and is supported to live well.
“Having been through breast cancer, I know how tough the journey is. Raising money means funding vital research, supporting others through treatment and helping save lives. It’s more than just wearing pink – it’s about making sure no one faces this alone,” says Praveen.
To find out more about getting involved, head over to BreastCancerNow.Org
