Globally, October is the month for breast cancer awareness and I’d like to share a few stories of extraordinary courage.

Single mother Goolcher Navdar is one of the many bravehearts whose life has been affected by the disease. While she was volunteering at BurJuman’s Safe and Sound Breast Cancer Awareness camp, she had a mammogram and ultrasound test, which tested positive.

“It was such a low phase in my life and to be honest, I was OK if I had to die. But then I thought of my children. Though they are grown up now, I know they still needed me. It took a lot of inner resolve, but I decided that I would fight this battle with all that I had,” Goolcher said. “There were a host of things that kept me going. Apart from the fabulous medical attention I got, I was blessed with wonderful friends who prayed for me and supported me. I started making myself a priority, fed my body nutritious food and, most importantly, stopped worrying incessantly about things that may or may not even happen. Cancer has been a blessing for me on many levels”.

Dubai girl Natasha Malhotra was diagnosed with cancer at age 27 and she fought the battle like a boss. But lost her young beautiful life. Reading her blog, I found her words of strength. “After dispatching several warning signals, it finally made its presence known loud and clear so I’d get the picture. And did I ever.” She wrote. “I should’ve gone for a check-up. By the time you realise something’s not quite right, it’s already advanced considerably,” she wrote about her initial reaction of devastation and despair. Then somehow something shifted within her. “I went with the flow. I wouldn’t get upset; I’d find a way to see the humour in the situation”. And she lived the rest of her years peacefully and passionately, becoming an inspiration to many.

They say it’s not about what cards you have been dealt but how you play the game, and it takes a strong person to do that. I salute every woman who has lived her life courageously.

Life is never easy. Sometimes we have more than our share of burdens and sometimes we don’t get that happy ending. But each day is a gift and we must learn to live it the best way possible. This month is a reminder to respect and nurture our bodies. Please call your doctor and get a check-up this week. I wish you all good health and happiness.

— Follow Uma on social media on @umagd