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Devi Singh was born and raised in a small town in Guyana, South America, as the youngest of six siblings. Born prematurely at home, Devi weighed approximately 2.5 pounds and measured about 12 inches. Her survival was a testament to the dedicated care and love of her mother.
Devi’s small town in Guyana was surrounded by lush greenery, with the scent of tropical flowers and the sound of birdsong filling the air. She spent her days exploring the outdoors, climbing guava trees, and playing hide-and-seek with her friends. Her father, a chemist at the sugar factory, instilled in her the value of perseverance.
When Devi was five, her family migrated to the Bahamas as her father sought new opportunities in the emerging sugar industry. A year later, the factory closed due to low production, prompting Devi’s family to return to Guyana. In 1978, seeking better opportunities, her family migrated to Miami where Devi thrived, pursuing an education at Miami Dade College and working her way to a full-time library position.
In 2018, Devi faced a major life challenge when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Receiving a diagnosis of Grade 3 invasive ductal carcinoma must have been incredibly overwhelming and frightening for Devi. She felt a mix of emotions, including shock, fear, and uncertainty about her future. However, her decision to share her story and emphasize the importance of early detection and treatment suggests that she found strength and resilience in her journey.
After Devi’s third chemotherapy session, she began to lose her hair. It was a difficult experience, but she decided to take control by shaving her head. This decision helped her feel more empowered and less anxious about the changes happening to her body.
After her chemotherapy sessions, Devi experienced significant difficulty walking due to extreme weakness and fatigue. This side effect was one of the toughest parts of her recovery, as it limited her ability to perform everyday tasks and maintain her independence. Additionally, severe sunburn on her hands made it extremely painful and difficult to use them, further affecting her mobility and daily activities until they healed.
In addition, Devi encountered significant challenges during her bilateral breast reconstruction with tissue expanders because they caused her discomfort and complications. Consequently, the tissue expanders had to be removed.
While Devi was undergoing chemotherapy, she was also being closely monitored for thyroid cancer by her oncologist.
Watching her hair start to regrow brought Devi immense relief and joy. It was a visible sign that her body was healing and returning to normal. Additionally, being able to cook again was a huge relief for Devi. It allowed her to return to one of her favorite activities and regain a sense of normalcy in her daily life.
During treatment, Devi felt immense gratitude for the unwavering support provided by family and friends. They listened to Devi’s fears and anxieties, offering encouraging words that kept Devi going. Additionally, they handled household chores and transportation to treatment sessions, allowing Devi to focus on her recovery. Moreover, the exceptional doctors and nurses guided her through treatment, answering questions and offering encouragement. Devi’s journey was a testament to the power of community and medical expertise.
This experience taught Devi to appreciate the small moments and find joy in everyday life. She now cherishes time with loved ones and celebrates even the smallest victories.
Finally, Devi's advice for others:
The Susan G. Komen organization provides individuals with breast cancer free support from trained oncology social workers, financial assistance, and information on breast cancer risk factors, screenings, diagnosis, treatment, cancer survivorship and more.
The National Breast Cancer Foundation provides education and support services about breast cancer and the importance of early detection. It also provides mammograms for women who are uninsured or cannot afford them.
The American Cancer Society Reach To Recovery program connects people facing breast cancer - from diagnosis through survivorship - with trained volunteers who are breast cancer survivors. Our volunteers provide one-on-one support to help those facing breast cancer cope with diagnosis, treatment, side effects, talking with friends and family, and more.
A woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every three minutes in the U.S.A., but more than two million survivors are proof that the diagnosis does not have to be a death sentence. If breast cancer is found early, it has a cure rate of 90 percent.
Geralyn Lucas picture: Speaker Agency
Getting a breast cancer diagnosis is scary at any age, but unique issues surround this disease when it is diagnosed early in life. Learn about the emotional, physical, social and medical issues surrounding breast cancer in young women. Meet Geralyn Lucas, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in her 20s. Hear how her unexpected diagnosis changed her whole perspective on life.
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Devi Singh 2005
Devi as a baby
May 1966
Going to Bahamas
Family Reunion 1993
Devi with her head shaved
Devi's hair growing back
Devi's Family
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