Women’s Voices: Pink October
To mark Pink October, Le 97150 is giving a voice to women who have faced breast cancer, are still battling the disease, or have come through it and returned to their former lives. Their stories are important; they serve as a reminder not only of the importance of screening, but also that every woman is different… some struggle alone, others want to share this life-changing experience, the trials they are going through, but all convey a message of hope.
For this first interview, Angèle Dormoy has chosen to recount her battle with sincerity, courage and a determination to remind people that early detection can save lives. The businesswoman and president of the Saint Martin Chamber of Commerce and Industry is no stranger to a fight, but this one is different. She hesitated to talk about it… other people’s judgement can be a heavy burden. But after a few months’ reflection, encouraged by her sisters, she decided to speak out – not for herself, but for other women… especially those in good health.
How did you discover you had cancer?
I was between two mammograms when I carried out a self-examination and discovered a small lump in one of my breasts. The diagnosis came back: triple-negative breast cancer, one of the most aggressive and difficult forms to treat. That’s why I’m emphasising today the importance of self-examination and early detection.
How are you doing now?
I’m currently undergoing treatment. It’s a long and gruelling journey, both physically and emotionally. In particular, I’ve had to cope with losing my hair, which my father shaved off at my request. It was a difficult moment, but it turned into a genuine act of love. I’m continuing to move forward with the unwavering support of my family.
How have you adapted your daily life and your work?
My daily life is now dictated by my treatments and how tired I feel. I’m learning to listen to my body and respect my limits. I’m still available to chat and answer questions, but only as my energy allows – my ‘internal battery’, as I like to call it.
As soon as my treatment allows, I head home to keep my spirits up and recharge that famous battery; there’s nothing quite like my island.
Why did I choose to speak out?
At my sisters’ request, I decided to share my journey. I hope that my story will encourage discussion, help people better understand the disease and, above all, remind them of the importance of early screening. We have a thousand things on our minds every day, but we sometimes forget to make our health a priority. If my experience can encourage even one woman to see a doctor or have a mammogram, then speaking out will have been worthwhile. I don’t want this to be ‘Angèle Dormoy’s story’, because it doesn’t define who I am, but I’d like this story to encourage other women to carry out breast self-examinations and to go for screening.
What is your relationship with the illness?
I carry on with my faith, my family and my determination to keep fighting. There are difficult days. I get through them at my own pace, allowing myself to be tired, to feel afraid and to rest. I keep smiling whenever I can. Staying engaged with my projects and keeping in touch with others helps me maintain my balance. My treatment is at the heart of my journey. The love of my loved ones and my faith give me the strength to get through it, one step at a time. And I keep telling myself: “We’ve got this!”
Interview by Ann Bouard
