KOTA KINABALU – In a video posted on Facebook, Kapayan assemblyman Jannie Lasimbang revealed that she has been battling breast cancer since January, and thanked her constituents for being understanding.
Lasimbang, who is also Sabah DAP Women’s chief, said she has been advised by her doctor to refrain from public events due to her weakened immune system.
“As an elected assemblywoman, I worry about not being able to visit my constituency frequently and attending to the people’s needs.
“To my constituents, thank you for understanding and please know that I have a team of volunteers and staff to help. I thank my colleagues and volunteers who stood in for me and continue serving the people.”
Lasimbang said this in a video posted on Facebook on Tuesday, recorded for Kinabalu Pink Ribbon, a Sabah-based non-governmental organisation that serves as a support group for breast cancer patients.
In the three-minute video, Lasimbang also shared her initial thoughts upon discovering the bad news, which was a “gloomy end to life”.
“But I didn’t allow myself to have negative thoughts because everyone is very supportive, especially my immediate family. But after each chemo (chemotherapy) cycle, we have to deal with five days of fatigue, diarrhoea, loss of appetite and a painful bloated stomach.
“At times, it can be very hard to stay positive.”
Lasimbang also said as someone who is used to depending on herself, she is now learning to ask for help.
She added that she started losing her hair after her first chemotherapy cycle, so she decided to go bald.
“It was almost like a solemn ceremony (when I shaved my head). My nieces and nephews love my new look, and my siblings were excited about hair gears and hair pieces. Lucky thing is, I never have to worry about a bad hair day now,” she said, appearing positive and cheerful in the video.
Lasimbang also called on other breast cancer patients to stay strong and appreciate the relationship that they have built with the people around them.
“To my sisters who are battling breast cancer, we shall overcome. The precious gift of survival is ours to share, to give us and others the strength to overcome all pain and challenges. We are stronger together.
“May our appreciation for our friends and loved ones build meaningful relationships and strengthen the bonds we have.”
Towards the end of the video, Lasimbang emphasised the importance of early detection and awareness.
“Early detection of breast cancer is absolutely critical; mobile ultrasound and awareness will help save lives,” she said. – The Vibes, May 27, 2021
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