Gigia and breast cancer prevention

A true story that reminds us how important it is to listen to our bodies

Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women and remains one of the leading causes of female mortality worldwide. However, thanks to advancements in early detection, increasingly targeted treatments, and a growing culture of prevention, survival rates continue to improve.
In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we want to share the story of Gigia R., one of our colleagues who experienced this firsthand. Her story is about courage, awareness, and renewal—a powerful reminder for all women to never neglect their health.

How it started: the intuition that saved her life

Gigia didn’t discover the illness through routine screening—it was purely by chance.

“In 2019, while applying lotion for a sunburn, I felt something like a grain of rice in the upper part of my chest. At first, I thought about ignoring it, but a friend, whom I’ll always be grateful to, convinced me to get it checked.”

The diagnosis followed: two malignant tumors, fortunately still in the early stages.

Receiving a cancer diagnosis is a shock. Gigia’s first reaction was disbelief:

“At first, I laughed. I couldn’t believe it. Then my thoughts went straight to my children: how could I tell them? How would I handle it without burdening them?”

Her mind immediately turned to her loved ones, her family, and the plans that would be put on hold. But from the start, her determination to protect them and face the challenge head-on came through.

The treatment journey

“I was lucky—it was stage one. I underwent a mastectomy and 12 weekly cycles of chemotherapy.”

It was an exhausting process, but Gigia approached it with clarity and resilience. She tried to maintain as much normalcy as possible, even during the toughest times.

“Physically I was drained, but deep down I believed I would get through it. I didn’t want to change my lifestyle—and I didn’t. Despite everything, I continued living my days as usual.”

Even in the hardest moments, like losing her hair, Gigia found ways to bring lightness.

“On Halloween, I started losing my hair. I had to take my daughter trick-or-treating, so I shaved my head and told her with a smile: ‘I’ve found the perfect costume! This year, Mommy’s going as Uncle Fester.’ And we went out together.”

Besides hair loss, she had to face other physical changes:

“The hardest part was accepting the changes: the swelling, the hair loss, the different chest. Even now, the reconstruction has left visible scars, and that’s still a sensitive point for me.”

 

Recovery and getting life back on track

Despite the challenges, Gigia didn’t allow the cancer to stop her life.

“During treatment, I tried to do everything as before. The only real thing I had to give up was my previous job—it was physically too demanding.”

But new opportunities followed.

“My employers were understanding, and today I’m in a role I never would have imagined. I’ve learned to aim higher, stay curious, and grow every day.”

The experience brought new awareness:

“Now I really listen to my body. I get regular checkups and try to never ignore the signs. I’ve become more anxious for my loved ones, but I try to pass on to them the importance of prevention.”

 

Breast cancer prevention: what you can do

Prevention is one of the most powerful tools we have. Here are some key habits to reduce risk:

Regular Screenings
Get mammograms as recommended by your doctor. They are the most effective way to detect breast cancer early.

Monthly Self-Exams
Get to know your body. Monthly self-checks help you notice changes and catch issues early.

Healthy Lifestyle
Exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, avoid smoking and excessive alcohol, and maintain a healthy weight.

Genetic Risk Assessment
If you have a family history of breast cancer or genetic mutations like BRCA1 or BRCA2, talk to your doctor about personalized prevention strategies.

Early diagnosis: why it can save your life

Even today, early diagnosis remains the best way to beat this cancer. When detected early, the chances of recovery are greatly increased, and less invasive treatments are often possible. Targeted therapies and advanced reconstruction techniques also help improve quality of life.

Gigia’s advice to all women:

“Don’t let it break you and face it with courage. A little lightness helps too. And most of all: never forget to get your annual checkup!”

 

Every moment matters

Gigia’s story reminds us that prevention can make all the difference and that even from crisis, new opportunities may come.

“I’ve learned to see time differently. I’m more grateful for every moment, more patient, more aware. I take nothing for granted anymore.”

Take care of yourself. Prevention saves lives!

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