A Friend’s Diagnosis: A Devastating Revelation

Çankırı Woman’s Life Saved by Early Breast Cancer Detection at KETEM

Çankırı,Turkey – July 28,2025 – Arzu Kılıç,a 46-year-old mother of three,has shared her inspiring story of survival after being diagnosed with breast cancer and undergoing successful treatment,thanks to early detection services at a local screening and training center (KETEM). Kılıç’s journey began in 2022 when she accompanied a friend to the Çankırı Community Health Center to obtain mammography results.

While there, Kılıç was encouraged by doctors to undergo a mammogram herself. The unexpected test revealed a mass in her chest, a discovery that would led to a life-saving diagnosis. Following the screening, Kılıç was informed of the mass by KETEM and later began an intensive treatment process at Ankara University Ibni Sina Hospital. After approximately 1.5 years of treatment, including four rounds of chemotherapy and 20 radiotherapy sessions, Kılıç has regained her health, though ongoing check-ups continue.Kılıç emphasized that she experienced no prior symptoms or discomfort, making the early detection all the more critical. “my friends at KETEM insisted, and I got my mammogram and learned about my illness. as I didn’t have any discomfort, pain, or complaints, I was living my normal life,” she told AA reporters.She also shared that her sister was diagnosed with the same disease a year later and also benefited from early detection.Recalling the initial shock of her diagnosis, Kılıç admitted to feeling immense fear and anxiety. “The name ‘cancer’ is scary. You here about chemotherapy, and they try to scare you. But because I learned early, my treatment was made easier,” she explained. She had feared a complete mastectomy but was reassured by her doctor that the early diagnosis would lead to a less invasive procedure. “Fortunately, only the mass was removed. Of course, they did chemotherapy and radiotherapy as a preventative measure,” Kılıç added.

The thought of her children was a primary motivator during her treatment. “when I first heard, my children came to mind.I thought, ‘What will happen to them?’ My doctors always told me, ‘You will say you are recovering from the flu. Because you came early, you are at the beginning, so don’t be afraid.'” Kılıç expressed profound gratitude for her doctors and the support she received, stating, “If I can talk here peacefully right now, it’s thanks to your doctors. I can say it’s the beauty of learning early.”

Provincial Health Director Yunus Emre Bulut and the KETEM staff were also acknowledged by Kılıç for their notable support throughout her treatment journey.

Dr. Burhanettin Erdemli, responsible for the Çankırı Community Health Center, highlighted the critical role of KETEM in combating cancer, one of the leading causes of death. He stated that KETEM offers screening for cervical, breast, and colorectal cancers. “When you come at appropriate intervals, we can diagnose cancer early, even when you have no symptoms. We ensure that you continue your life as an individual who has never been ill,” Erdemli added, urging everyone to utilize these vital early detection services.

How do you cope with feelings of helplessness when supporting a freind thru a devastating diagnosis?

Understanding the Initial Shock & Emotional Response

Receiving a serious diagnosis for a friend is profoundly unsettling. It triggers a cascade of emotions – shock, disbelief, sadness, fear, and even guilt. These feelings are entirely normal. It’s crucial to acknowledge them and allow yourself (and your friend) to experience them without judgment. initial reactions often include:

Disbelief: Questioning the accuracy of the diagnosis is common.

Sadness & Grief: Grieving the loss of the future you envisioned with your friend.

Anxiety & Fear: Worrying about your friend’s well-being and the impact of the illness.

Helplessness: Feeling unable to fix the situation or alleviate your friend’s suffering.

Recognizing these emotions as valid is the first step in providing effective support.Don’t minimize your own feelings; seeking support for yourself is vital during this challenging time. Consider talking to a therapist or joining a support group for caregivers or friends of those with serious illnesses.

Navigating the Conversation: What to Say (and What Not To)

Interaction is key, but it can be incredibly tough. Here’s a guide to navigating conversations with your friend:

Do:

Listen Actively: Truly hear what your friend is saying, without interrupting or offering unsolicited advice. Empathetic listening is paramount.

Offer Practical Help: “How can I help?” is a powerful question. Be specific – offer to drive to appointments, prepare meals, or simply be a companion.

Validate Their feelings: acknowledge their emotions. Phrases like, “That sounds incredibly difficult,” or “It’s okay to feel scared,” can be incredibly comforting.

Be Patient: Processing a diagnosis takes time. allow your friend to share at their own pace.

Don’t:

Minimize Their Experience: Avoid statements like, “You’ll be fine,” or “Stay positive.” While well-intentioned, they can invalidate their feelings.

Offer Unsolicited Medical Advice: Unless you are a medical professional directly involved in their care, refrain from suggesting treatments or remedies.

Make It About You: This is their journey, not an prospect to share your own struggles.

Disappear: Consistent support, even in small ways, is invaluable.

Understanding the Diagnosis: Gathering Data

While respecting your friend’s privacy, it’s helpful to understand the basics of their diagnosis. This allows you to offer more informed support.

Reliable Sources: Encourage your friend to share information from their medical team. Supplement this with reputable sources like:

national Institutes of health (NIH): https://www.nih.gov/

Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/

American Cancer Society (if applicable): https://www.cancer.org/

Medical Terminology: Don’t be afraid to ask your friend (or look up) unfamiliar terms. Understanding the medical jargon can help you better grasp the situation.

Prognosis & Treatment: Be mindful that prognosis and treatment plans can change. Focus on supporting your friend through each stage of their journey.

Practical Support: Beyond Words

Words of comfort are notable, but practical assistance can be even more impactful. Consider these options:

1. Appointment Assistance: Offer to drive your friend to and from appointments, take notes during consultations (with their permission), or simply provide companionship.
2. Meal Readiness: Cooking meals can be a huge relief for someone undergoing treatment.Organize a meal train with other friends and family.
3. Household Chores: Offer to help with tasks like grocery shopping, laundry, or cleaning.
4. Childcare/Pet Care: If your friend has children or pets, offer to provide care so they can focus on their health.
5. Emotional Support: Be a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, or a distraction when needed.

Maintaining Boundaries & Self-Care

Supporting a friend through a serious illness can be emotionally draining. It’s essential to prioritize your own well-being.

Set Boundaries: It’s okay to say no if you’re feeling overwhelmed. You can’t pour from an empty cup.

Schedule Self-Care: Make time for activities that recharge you – exercise, hobbies, spending time with loved ones.

Seek Support: talk to a therapist, counselor, or support group to process your own emotions.

Recognize Your Limits: You are not a medical professional. Focus on providing emotional and practical support, and leave the medical decisions to the experts.

the Importance of Advocacy & Resources

Sometimes, your friend may need an advocate to navigate the healthcare system or