After several months of visits, I was sent for an ultrasound biopsy. At the time, I didn’t think much of it. The radiologist, Dr. Maimuma, who later became one of our volunteer doctors, assured me it was a routine checkup. But when I received the call from my doctor on a Friday—telling me to get Tamoxifen (a cancer treatment drug) before receiving my results—I did what any concerned person would do: I Googled the drug. That’s when I learned the truth: I had breast cancer.

The moment I discovered the diagnosis was one I’ll never forget. My heart stopped. I had so many questions and no answers. I immediately called my husband, who, though devastated, reassured me that everything would be okay. Still, I was overwhelmed with fear and sadness, especially thinking of my four young children and who would care for them if I wasn’t around. This moment marked the beginning of a painful yet transformative journey.

I started chemotherapy in November 2015. After struggling to find the right resources locally, I flew to India for surgery and radiotherapy in February 2016. I spent four months at Apollo Hospital in India, going through mastectomy surgery and 21 cycles of radiotherapy. It was during this time that I realized how important it was to have access to timely, accurate information. Had I known earlier what the symptoms of breast cancer were, I could have been diagnosed sooner. Unfortunately, many women lack that essential knowledge.

I met many women battling cancer in advanced stages during my treatment. Conversations with them revealed that if they had received proper information earlier, their cancers might have been detected and treated before reaching the later stages. Sadly, the lack of information and awareness around cancer, particularly in rural areas, is a major factor contributing to delayed diagnoses and the high mortality rate among women.

After my treatment, I was deeply moved by the challenges cancer patients face, both financially and emotionally. Cancer treatment is expensive, and many women face financial hardship, especially when they don’t have access to resources or support. I met women whose husbands abandoned them because they couldn’t afford chemotherapy. The high cost of cancer care is a significant barrier, but what I also realized is that early treatment is far less expensive than late-stage treatment.

In 2016, after completing my treatment, I co-founded Save A Life Cancer Awareness and Support Network (SALCASUN). My personal experience as a cancer survivor ignited my passion for cancer advocacy. I wanted to ensure that women in my community, and beyond, had the information, resources, and support they needed to detect cancer early, seek treatment, and live full, healthy lives.

The lack of awareness, particularly in rural communities, and the stigma surrounding cancer, drove me to become an advocate. My goal with SALCASUN is not only to raise awareness but also to empower women—especially those from vulnerable backgrounds—so that they can make informed decisions about their health.

Today, I am proud to say that SALCASUN has grown into a vibrant community of over 40 volunteers, 5 volunteer doctors, and supporters who are all dedicated to making cancer awareness and early detection accessible to as many women as possible. My sister Rahana Kakudi, the co-founder, has been a pillar of strength in managing the organization, alongside our dedicated team.

To all the women out there battling cancer, I want to remind you: Cancer is not a death sentence. It is a challenge, but it’s one that can be overcome with early detection, timely treatment, and a strong support system. I am living proof that Early Detection Saves Lives, and I am determined to continue spreading this message and providing hope to all women facing cancer.

I invite you all to join us this October for the Breast Cancer Awareness Walk, educational talks, and free health screenings. Together, we can make a difference and help save lives.

Let’s continue the fight against cancer. Join us in creating a world where every woman has access to the knowledge and resources she needs to live a healthy life.

Hauwa Adamu Kakudi
Co-Founder, SALCASUN