A mother of two, diagnosed with triple positive breast cancer at 37, shared that the induced early menopause due to her medical treatment has been more challenging than chemotherapy. Anj Periyasamy, a physiotherapist now aged 41, described her breast cancer as hormone-dependent, requiring her ovaries to remain inactive to prevent cancer growth. This restriction prevents her from using hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to manage the numerous symptoms of menopause she experiences, such as night sweats, hot flashes, mood swings, low libido, hair loss, muscle pains, and tendon aches.
Anj expressed her struggles with menopause, stating, “Menopause is tough. It’s really tough, and there are aspects of it that are seldom discussed.” She recounted a moment of emotional breakdown in front of her oncologist, highlighting the unbearable nature of the symptoms she was facing, including frequent sweating, painful tendons, and mood disturbances. While chemotherapy was expected to be temporary, the psychological impact of menopause lingered, affecting her both mentally and physically.
Reflecting on her diagnosis in March 2022, Anj recalled feeling unusually fatigued, attributing it to the demands of motherhood while caring for her young daughters, Jasmin and Maya. Initially dismissing the fatigue as a common side effect of parenting, Anj eventually sought medical advice after sensing something was amiss. Despite initial reassurances from a breast surgeon that she was likely too young for breast cancer, Anj proceeded with further tests, including a mammogram, ultrasound, and biopsy, which eventually confirmed her fears.
Following her diagnosis, Anj underwent a rigorous treatment regimen, including chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy, targeted antibody therapy, and hormone-suppressing medications. Despite enduring physical challenges like hair loss, nail discoloration, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties during treatment, Anj emphasized that the menopausal symptoms posed a greater burden on her well-being.
Anj detailed the profound impact of menopause-related symptoms on her daily life, from debilitating tendon pain hindering her ability to exercise to the emotional toll of sexual dysfunction. She highlighted the lack of discussion around managing menopausal symptoms in hormone-dependent breast cancer patients, noting the constraints on using traditional remedies or supplements.
Anj shared her efforts to communicate her journey with her daughters, navigating conversations about her illness and treatment in age-appropriate ways. She emphasized the importance of visibility for women of South Asian descent in cancer narratives, advocating for increased awareness and representation in the healthcare space.
As she continues her journey, Anj aims to inspire her daughters with her resilience and hopes that her story will empower others facing life challenges. Anj’s experience is featured in the “Are You Better Yet?” exhibition by Trekstock Cancer Support, offering a platform to raise awareness and share stories of survival and resilience.