On World Cancer Day, Antigoni Louka and Christina Dimitriou shared their personal stories. They spoke from the heart about a battle that changed their lives. Cancer came uninvited, bringing fear, tears, and uncertainty.
Through difficulties, Antigoni found strength in small daily victories and in the love and support of those around us. She reminds us that it’s okay to bend but we can always rise again.
“Today, on World Cancer Day, I shared my story after an invitation from the Permanent Committee Against Cancer-OSAK. Cancer changed my life, but it does not define me. Through fear, tears, and small daily victories, I learned that strength lies in love, in the support of those who stand by us, and in accepting that it is okay to bend. I thank my doctors, PASYKAF, my family, and all who stayed by my side. To those fighting today: you are not alone.”
Antigoni Louka, diagnosed with high-grade lymphoma, found out about her disease through preventive exams suggested by her gynecologist. The diagnosis was overwhelming: she felt like she was losing her footing and feared she might not see her 3-year-old son grow up. Despite her fear, with strength, faith, optimism, and support from her doctors, PASYKAF, and the Oncology Center, she stood tall again. Her story shows that even in dark times, love, support, and hope can bring light.
Christina Dimitriou discovered “as if by miracle” that she had cancer at 37 years old, before reaching the age for regular mammograms. The diagnosis came after a preventive exam suggested by her mother’s oncologist since her mother had been ill before. By the time she was diagnosed, she was already at stage three. She emphasizes that cancer does not discriminate; despite living a healthy lifestyle, she faced the disease.
