Cancer -The Big “C”

Yesterday, I watched a Nigerian movie titled “Diamonds in the Sky” on Netflix. It was a movie that detailed how three families navigated the emotional challenges that presented themselves when a family member was diagnosed with some form of cancer.

It starred two of my favorite actresses of all times –Joke Silva and Bimbo Akintola. In other news, have you seen Bimbo Akintola’s performance in the movie “93 days”? This movie told the story of Ebola in Nigeria. I really thought she gave a stellar performance in that movie. Ah, I digress!

Back to “Diamonds in the Sky”, the cast was amazing. I particularly enjoyed watching Omowunmi Dada. I looked her up and realized that she has been on screen for a while but this was the first movie I have watched that she starred in and I thought she did great.

There are around 200 different types of cancer and it is the second leading cause of death globally. Cancer is a disease where abnormal cells divide uncontrollably and destroy body tissue.

Let me share with you some insight from the movie:

• Cancer has no age limit. One is neither too young nor old to be diagnosed with this deadly disease.

• Always get a second medical opinion. Some doctors/hospitals are just rip offs and others are just quack!

• Early detection is key! Do not wait until it becomes a medical emergency before you head to the hospital. Once you notice something wrong, go see your doctor. Most cancers can be cured with chemotherapy or surgeries in the early stages and people have gone on to live full lives after such treatments.

• Do not self-medicate. Go for proper tests and check up and only take what your health care provider advises you to.

• Support of family and friends is important when going through such medical conditions as it can be emotionally draining.

• There are lots of cancer foundations around you and government and individuals have provided support/funding to make these treatments affordable for the average citizen. Ignorance is not an excuse.

• For women, monthly self-breast examination is highly recommended and the best time to do this is the week after your period ends. Doctors believe that it is important for women to understand their breasts so they know what’s normal and promptly report changes. This can assist in the early detection of lumps or other cancerous cells in the breast tissue.

Have you watched the movie? Do you have anything else to add to this list? Please share.

Until my next post, do stay safe, stay strong and keep hope alive!

Love,

Peony N Spice

#cancer #awareness #pinkribbon #diamondsinthesky