Meera's Breast Cancer Scare

Meera, a 40-year-old mother of four, lives with her family in a low-income household. Her husband works as a daily wage laborer, and Meera supports the family by cleaning wool and spinning it into woolen thread.

Three months ago, she noticed a painful swelling and a lump in her right breast, accompanied by occasional fever. Worried but afraid, she first turned to local remedies and informal treatments. When the problem didn't improve, she finally visited a hospital — but as soon as doctors recommended further tests and possible surgery, fear took over, and she stopped going back. Convinced that surgery might cause cancer to spread through her body, she continued relying on local advice, hoping the swelling would simply go away on its own.

During an SKT door-to-door visit in her community, Meera opened up to the staff about her pain and her fears. She admitted she believed she might have cancer, and that surgery would only make things worse.

The SKT team spent time counselling Meera and her family, gently explaining the realities of proper medical treatment and easing their fears. With their encouragement and support, Meera agreed to return to the hospital — and this time, SKT staff accompanied her.

A gynecologist and a general surgeon examined her and ordered further investigations, including blood tests, a bilateral breast ultrasound, and a biopsy of the right breast. The results showed that she had a right breast abscess with reactive lymphadenitis — not cancer.

Meera underwent surgery on her right breast and was discharged with clear post-operative care instructions and a follow-up plan.

Today, Meera is recovering well. After three long months of pain, fear, and uncertainty, she and her family are deeply grateful for SKT's support and guidance. Meera now looks forward to the future with relief and hope.

This case shows how timely counselling, compassionate support, and access to quality healthcare can help patients overcome fear and misinformation, leading to successful treatment and a brighter outlook.

Meera stands in an outside hallway with one daughter. This was prior to her surgery.

Merra stands in the same hallway after surgery with two of her daughers.

Merra gives a kinds nod to the camera. She is outside with a man working behind her.

Merra is back to work, sitting in her home with a charkha, making spools of yarn.