womanthismonth.com | OCTOBER 2026 STORIES OF STRENGTH 83 STORIES OF STRENGTH Hind Through the Fear For Hind Sunny, a worrying change she noticed months before her scheduled mammogram marked the beginning of the most difficult period of her life. I had made sure to have a mammogram every year since the age of 42. In 2024, my screening was scheduled for September, but in May, I felt an uncomfortable sensation in my breast. I went to my doctor, who reassured me that everything was fine and advised me to have an ultrasound for further reassurance. The results were clear, so I went on a long trip. While travelling, I noticed a slight indentation in my right breast. A few days later, in July, I felt a large lump under my armpit. I panicked, but I did not dare see a doctor because I did not want to worry my family while they were enjoying their summer holiday. I spent days frightened and unable to sleep until I returned to Bahrain. I immediately went to my doctor, who appeared concerned and referred me for tests and a biopsy. Nothing showed up in the breast, but the result of the biopsy under my armpit was shocking: cancer. I consulted another doctor and underwent further tests, which confirmed that I had breast cancer. I was quickly referred to the Royal Medical Services Oncology Centre, where I began the most difficult period of my life. I was emotionally devastated and haunted by the fear of death. I kept thinking about my four children: Who would I leave them with? Why me? I lost a great deal of weight and was unable to sleep or eat. Eventually, my oncologist referred me to a psychiatrist to help me cope with the shock. But by the grace of God, and with the support of the doctors, nurses and my beloved family, everything changed. I began treatment filled with fear, but gradually found hope and strength. Eventually, I reached a point where I could go into treatment feeling positive and confident that I was capable of overcoming the disease. I went through many stages of treatment, including chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, the removal of the tumour under my armpit, reconstruction, radiotherapy and targeted therapy. I also had my ovaries removed because of the hereditary nature of the disease. Alongside these treatments, psychological therapy played an important role in helping me regain my emotional balance and confidence in myself. Today, I can proudly say: I defeated cancer, but I did not defeat it alone. God was with me. The doctors, medical team and my family also supported me every step of the way. I am deeply grateful to them all, with particular thanks to the Royal Medical Services Oncology Centre for the comprehensive and compassionate care I received. I emerged from this experience stronger than before and with greater faith in life. I realised that hope can be born even in the darkest moments.
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