Prudential Shares The Story Of Lily's Mother: From Patients To Motivate Hope For Fellow Cancer Fighters

JAKARTA - Behind her warm smile, not many know how long and hard Mrs. Lily's life journey as a breast cancer survivor (braeast cancer warrior) is. He believes that risks are unpredictable, but protection can be prepared early on. The decision he made nearly two decades ago became a big umbrella that protected him and his family from various challenges of life.

In July 2013, during the results of routine health checks, she found a solid lump measuring 1 cm in her left breast. A series of examinations were carried out, from Jakarta to Malaysia, before finally Mrs Lily underwent her first operation. The results of the pathology that comes out are like lightning in broad daylight, breast cancer stage 1.

"I don't have a family history, there were no previous symptoms. It all started with a regular medical check-up. From there I learned, early detection can save lives," he recalled, quoted Monday, October 27.

Fortunately, 7 years before that, in November 2006, Mrs. Lily had taken a small step that would later become a big determinant in her life, namely having health protection. Armed with instincts as a mother and entrepreneur, she realized the importance of financial protection. In December that year, she officially had Prudential Indonesia insurance policy, without ever expecting how much it would benefit in the future.

His first operation was carried out at the Medical Center Crown, Malaysia. He got the best service without having to think about the costs. After that, he returned to Indonesia to undergo a second operation and 25 radiotherapy sessions at MRCC Siloam Hospital Semanggi, Jakarta, all of which were fully borne by Prudential Indonesia. Four years passed, Mrs. Lily routinely carried out three-month checks. Until 2017 the results of the PET scan showed safe conditions.

However, March 2018 is the next turning point. Cancer cells re-emerged in surgical scars. On April 3, 2018, Mrs. Lily underwent a left radical mastektomy, with a total cost of Rp. 167 million, all of which were borne again by Prudential Indonesia.

"At that time I only focused on healing, not cost. It gave extraordinary relief," he said.

Six chemotherapy cycles were carried from June to October 2018. Although the side effects were not easy, his spirit never went out. Precisely from these treatment rooms, empathy grew and a new spirit. Together with fellow survivors, he then founded the Samudra Kasih community at MRCC Siloam Semanggi, a place to strengthen each other, share stories, and spread hope for other cancer fighters.

"I don't want my journey to just stop recovering. I want to be a part of the power that heals others with empathy and the spirit of life," he said meaningfully.

In 2023, exactly ten years since the first diagnosis, PET scans again showed the growth of cancer cells in lymph nodes and livers. Not giving up, Mrs. Lily underwent her fifth operation at MRCC Siloam, and then total hysterectomy in Malaysia. After undergoing routine target therapy and examination every six months, in 2024 again brought new news: enlargement of the lymph nodes in the neck and lungs.

He is looking for second opinion for eight oncologist doctors in eight hospitals and three countries. The results of the biopsy in Malaysia show that only infections and target therapy have continued until now. All costs, both at home and abroad, are fully borne by Prudential Indonesia.

"I'm really grateful. I can choose the best oncology team, the best hospital, even abroad, without thinking about fees at all," he said.

The story of Mrs. Lily is a reflection of the importance of early detection and financial protection in dealing with cancer. According to GLOBOCAN 2022 data, breast cancer is still the most cases in Indonesia, with 66,271 new cases, and more than 70 percent of them have been detected in advanced stages. In fact, early detection has proven to be able to increase the chances of healing while reducing treatment costs which are getting higher in line with the development of the disease stage.

In addition, the journey against cancer also demands calm of mind for patients. Data from Prudential Studies "Private Sounds" in Indonesia shows that nearly 9 out of 10 people have delayed treatment, and nearly half of them often delay treatment due to various obstacles. The delay is mainly influenced by three main factors, namely a lack of clear health information, costs as a source of stress, and the family as a top priority.

When patients are supported by their families and the right protection system, they can fully focus on recovery, not worry. This is a form of Prudential Indonesia's commitment to provide peace of mind for customers when they need it.

In line with this commitment, Prudential Indonesia and MRCC Siloam Hospitals continue to collaborate to campaign for preventive protection through a health screening campaign for early detection of breast cancer for 1,000 customers who meet the criteria. In addition, Prudential Indonesia is also actively working with various hospitals in the PRUPriority Hospital network in providing education through the seminar/webinar Breast Cancer Awareness on efforts to maintain the health of the body to prevent breast cancer.

Mrs. Lily's story has inspired many people to routinely check their health and not delay important steps in the course of treatment. Now Mrs. Lily is still undergoing advanced therapy and routine examinations. But her life is no longer about fear, but about hope and courage. She actively shares education on the importance of early detection and insurance protection to many people.

Life starts with the letters B, Birth, ending with the letters D, Death. In the middle there is the letter C, Choice. Your choice today determines your future," he said with a strong smile.