What do you think people must watch out for to prevent thyroid cancer from progressing?
Being vigilant and seeking early intervention. You could lead a healthy life but sometimes it’s just in the genes. Regularly checking yourself for any lump would help. Another thing is not fearing the doctors. If you feel something unusual, consult your doctor. Doctors are God’s gift talaga. They’re your best partner in the journey, so don’t be scared of consulting them.
How did you transition to a healthier lifestyle battling thyroid cancer?
I did not (haha). The doctor told me wala namang bawal. I’m a bad example, actually. I took the opposite route and enjoyed food, enjoyed life. I still do.
After the surgery, my parathyroid glands were affected. It’s responsible for calcium metabolism. Because of that, I take calcium supplements, drink milk, and consume dairy products as well. I’ve also been taking medication regularly as a replacement for my thyroid gland’s functions. The experience also made me conscious of the benefits of bananas so I eat a lot of it. It helps increase my potassium levels.
I developed an even greater love for seafood because they provide iodine for my body. Potassium-Calcium-Iodine-friendly meals help a lot.

How did you strengthen your physical and mental state in overcoming this condition?
I hate exercise, but I love dancing and walking. To trick myself into exercising, I dance and enjoy the activity. I also love taking long walks (except during this pandemic though).
I try to avoid stress and surround myself with positive, uplifting people. I walk away from negativity as much as I can. I read the Bible and pray, because stripped of work, money, health, and ambition, God is all you’re ever going to have. So nurturing my spirituality has helped a lot in my recovery.
(Grace mentioned that she enjoyed joining fun runs and Zumba after surviving cancer. She also added that she loves riding bikes.)
Words of encouragement for people who are currently battling thyroid cancer.
Speaking from my journey through thyroid cancer, it is valid to feel fears and to feel down about the diagnosis. It is important to trust God and to trust your doctors as you go through treatments and surgery. There is a reason why doctors are licensed in the practice and Google is not. There will be an endless temptation to google your condition in an attempt to gain some control over your situation. But let God and the health experts take over.
Surround yourself with positive people who love you and care for you. You will realize that out of the hundreds and thousands on your Facebook friends list, they are the ones who truly matter in this journey. You can’t go through this alone so allow yourself to be vulnerable in the presence of your loved ones. It is okay to get and receive help.
Remember: You are going through the motions of doctor visits, surgery, and radioactive iodine therapy, so you can’t go back to leading a normal life. It is okay to feel down about it, but the point is you are already taking important steps towards recovery and healing, so don’t be too hard on yourself. God is going to be with you every step of the way.
I’m sharing this Bible verse that helped me as a thyroid cancer survivor:
Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Note: The experience of every patient varies. It’s still best to consult a doctor for the best treatment and preventive measures for your medical condition.
Learn more about Thyroid Cancer here.
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