Jehan Ashmawi on surviving cancer and her vow to help others.
By Sohila El Saadany
Jehan Ashmawi; a member of the Zahra Foundation, presenter of Enta Bekheir (You Are Well) show on YouTube, holder of MA in hospital administration, life coach, mother of two and a breast cancer survivor. Her diagnosis revealed her true character and made breaking out of her shell easier.
Here are the most important lessons she has learnt from her battle and hopes that she can help, support and guide others while they endure similar trials and tests.
“When I first learnt I had cancer, I was very weak and sad, but I also felt really close to Allah, this made me feel better and consequently more appreciative of everything else that is going right with me. Another important insight I gained was filtering all the negative people around me. So remember to only surround yourself with those who make you happy and don’t engulf you in a web of depression and pity.”
“I also learnt that I had to keep myself busy; that gave me purpose and took my mind away from the pain. It seemed like I blamed my illness for not being able to do as I wished, but I realized I had to stop feeling sorry for myself. I finally understood the importance of never putting anything off.”
We don’t have awareness programs for families to be educated on how to deal with cancer patients. This is why I dedicated my MA to the importance of establishing a unit for the psychological support of those with breast cancer.”
Ashmawi is a true warrior, may she always be a source of light to everyone around her.