A Journey of Courage: Cherry-Ann Boyce’s Battle with Breast Cancer

When Cherry-Ann Boyce first stepped into the oncology clinic at Kingston Public Hospital, fear gripped her heart. Surrounded by women who, like her, had been diagnosed with breast cancer, she felt a chill run down her spine. The stark reality hit her hard: some of the women she had seen during previous visits were no longer there. They had lost their battle against the illness, and the weight of that knowledge was overwhelming.

“It was scary. I didn’t see some of the same women, and then I would overhear conversations that these women had died. It was a difficult time for me, and I dreaded my visits, praying and hoping that my fate would not be the same,” Boyce recalled, her voice tinged with emotion.

Today, Cherry-Ann stands as a beacon of hope—a breast cancer survivor eager to share her story. She wants to encourage other women to prioritize early testing, which can be a lifesaver. In Jamaica, breast cancer is a pressing public health issue, with around 1,208 new cases diagnosed in 2020 alone. The Ministry of Health and Wellness has highlighted the importance of education and early detection methods, such as self-breast exams and clinical breast examinations.

The Reality of Breast Cancer in Jamaica

One in 21 Jamaican women is expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. This statistic is not just a number; it represents mothers, daughters, and sisters. Cherry-Ann, who grew up in Barbados, was blissfully unaware of the looming threat until she discovered a lump in her breast in 2021. Initial tests didn’t reveal anything alarming, and doctors suggested it might be a cyst.

“I accepted that diagnosis,” she said, reflecting on her initial disbelief. But life had other plans.

Seeking a Second Opinion

After a difficult personal period, Cherry-Ann returned to Jamaica and confided in a friend about her health scare. Her friend urged her to seek a second opinion, and that decision changed everything. A series of tests led to a biopsy, confirming her worst fears: she had stage two breast cancer.

At Kingston Public Hospital, she met a compassionate Barbadian doctor who guided her through the daunting process. “I did the surgery in August 2022, and from diagnosis to that process, it was difficult for me. Most of my family were in Barbados; I was here alone with my eight-year-old daughter,” she shared.

A Shift in Perspective

Despite being recommended for chemotherapy and radiation, Cherry-Ann chose a different path. She opted for hormone therapy but faced severe side effects that plunged her into a deep depression. It was during this challenging time that she decided to embrace a more natural approach to healing.

Inspired by her daughter’s struggles with eczema, she launched Jamizola Naturals, a line of plant-based skincare and haircare products. “Everyone’s experience is different. I have done follow-up tests, and the results have been very good,” she said, though she still grapples with body image issues.

A Message of Strength

Cherry-Ann’s journey has taught her resilience. “It is hard, but you have to dig deep to find the strength to keep going. If you get cancer, you are a warrior, and you can make the difference. There is somebody out there who will miss you if you stop trying,” she emphasized.

Her story is not just about survival; it’s about empowerment. “I cannot, and will not give up. My story can change another person’s life,” she declared, embodying the spirit of hope and determination.

As Cherry-Ann continues her journey, she reminds us all: every story matters, and every life is worth fighting for. Will you take the steps to protect your health today?