If you've noticed an error on the site, the information is inaccurate, or something is missing — let us know! Or maybe you'd like to suggest an idea — we'd love to hear it.
The story of 33-year-old Viktoriia, a mother of two sons, is an example of just how important self-examination, timely medical consultation, and the willingness to seek a second opinion can be.
In October 2023, Viktoriia, a massage therapist by profession, felt pain in her chest, which she initially attributed to work-related strain. However, a painful lump discovered during self-examination raised concern.
She consulted a local ultrasound specialist in Bakhmach, and despite the doctor's reassurances, decided to seek a second opinion at the National Cancer Institute. After a thorough examination, she was diagnosed with breast cancer (carcinoma).
The support of her loved ones and the professionalism of the medical staff became her foundation and inspiration. Viktoriia gratefully remembers her attending physician, Olha Lyhyrda, and the entire medical staff for their kindness and professionalism, and notes that the entire course of treatment was provided free of charge.
She names the support of a professional psychologist as an important part of maintaining a positive emotional state during treatment, and advises others not to neglect that kind of help.
Her most recent examinations (CT scans) in the fall of 2024 showed no signs of recurrence or disease progression.
Viktoriia is actively adapting to her new life. She was unable to return to work as a massage therapist, but she realized a dream — completing a course in acupuncture and opening her own practice.
Viktoriia urges everyone to practice self-examination, undergo preventive check-ups, and seek medical care promptly. Her experience also demonstrates the value of a second opinion: it was precisely her decision not to settle for the first reassuring conclusion that allowed the disease to be detected in time.
We thank Viktoriia for her openness and wish her strong health, happiness, and many years of life. The National Cancer Institute will continue to support her on her path to full recovery.
After a mastectomy and two years with a prosthesis, National Cancer Institute surgeons performed DIEP reconstruction and simultaneously transplanted a lymph node to treat arm swelling.
Back pain turned out to be multiple myeloma. How a railway station chief underwent a bone marrow transplant and returned to work.
Cancer doesn't always hurt: a routine mammogram changed the life of a National Cancer Institute employee. About chemotherapy, surgery, and support you don't expect.
