From Socks to Prosthetic Breast: The Untold Struggles of a Cancer Survivor
Cancer Survivor Shares Journey from Diagnosis to Advocacy
Benita Egone first noticed a lump on her left breast in 2020. As a certified accountant, former model, and mother, Egone initially dismissed it, having experienced breast lumps before. However, she soon realized this lump was different.
“This particular lump came up on the left side, and it was completely different,” Egone recalled during a recent presentation to fellows of the 2026 Naija Cancer Watch Fellowship.
Her concern intensified when she noticed dimpling around the area. A friend encouraged her to seek medical attention, but Egone delayed. This decision weighed heavily on her as tragedy struck in May 2020 when her mother, whom she described as her “number one person,” passed away.
It was only after her mother’s death that she sought medical help. By August, scans and consultations led to the diagnosis that the lump was cancerous. A biopsy was recommended, which confirmed her fears.
“It was devastating,” Egone said, expressing her shock at the diagnosis. Compounding her fear was the knowledge she had about cancer treatments, particularly chemotherapy. Instead of proceeding with the recommended course of treatment, she considered alternative remedies, a choice she now regrets.
Looking back, Egone believes that beginning treatment sooner could have altered the trajectory of her disease. “I should have been able to trust them to start the process,” she reflected, noting that her condition escalated to stage four over the ensuing years.
By 2022, her cancer had advanced significantly. In 2023, follow-up consultations revealed it had metastasized to her liver and bones. “That’s the stage that it’s a matter of life and death,” she said, urging others to seek timely medical treatment if diagnosed.
Egone’s journey has included significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges. One of the most difficult aspects was dealing with a persistent sore on her breast, which affected her confidence and social interactions.
“Having to move around with a sore… that was a big challenge,” she said, highlighting the stigma she felt due to the physical manifestation of her illness.
The financial burden of her treatment, which included consultations, medication, and transportation, amounted to tens of millions of naira. Despite the support of her family, particularly her brother, there were times when the weight of her situation became overwhelming. Egone experienced moments of despair to the point of contemplating her life.
“I told God to take my life,” she admitted, but she eventually found the strength to return to treatment, a decision she viewed as a turning point in her battle against cancer.
After continuing her treatment, Egone gradually began rebuilding her life. She learned to trust medical guidance, realizing that fear of chemotherapy was unfounded when coupled with proper care.
Today, Egone advocates for early detection and treatment of cancer. She emphasizes that her experience has given her a new perspective on life and purpose.
“I think God saved my life for a reason,” she noted, highlighting her commitment to encouraging others to seek medical attention without delay.
Her message to individuals faced with a cancer diagnosis is clear: “Brace yourself up. Have faith. Trust God.”
Returning to social activities, work, and advocacy, Egone now uses her story to motivate others. She aims to raise awareness about the importance of addressing health concerns promptly and the reality that a cancer diagnosis is not necessarily a death sentence.
“I’m back to my normal life,” she said, adopting a new understanding of what normal means after her experiences. Egone’s journey serves as a reminder of the importance of timely medical intervention and the resilience required to address life’s challenges.
