Anna reveals battle with stage 3 breast cancer and lymph node metastasis

In a video released on the 29th, Anna, wife of former footballer Park Joo-ho, shared her journey through stage 3 breast cancer treatment, noting that the cancer had metastasized to her lymph nodes. Although she is in complete remission and pregnant with her fourth child, she revealed that she can no longer breastfeed due to internal tissue changes following surgery.

Anna, the wife of former footballer Park Joo-ho, has revealed her arduous battle with cancer, spanning from a Stage 3 breast cancer diagnosis to chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation treatment. While she initially believed the cancer would not be severe, the actual diagnosis was much heavier than expected. The cancer had metastasized to her lymph nodes, and she had to endure significant physical changes during the treatment process. Anna spoke candidly about the fear she felt at the time and the changes to her body following treatment.

On the 29th, a video titled "The breast cancer treatment process I experienced firsthand: From chemotherapy side effects to reconstruction surgery and radiation therapy" was released on Anna's YouTube channel. In the video, she retraced the steps of her journey, from her initial diagnosis through chemotherapy and surgery to her radiation therapy.

She first mentioned how she had attempted to judge her own condition by searching the internet before confirming the exact type and stage of her cancer. "Do not try to find out on your own on the internet what type of breast cancer it is or what stage it is before receiving an accurate diagnosis," Anna advised. She noted that she, too, had felt certain the situation was not serious after seeing search results.

At the time, Anna stated, "I thought it would be Stage 1, and even if it wasn't good, I thought it would be Stage 2." However, the actual diagnosis was Stage 3 breast cancer. Having been deeply shocked by the result, which was entirely different from her expectations, she emphasized the importance of accurate diagnosis and medical explanations, sharing her experience of guessing her stage based on uncertain information.

The physical burden faced during the treatment process was significant. Anna explained that at the time of her Stage 3 diagnosis, the cancer had already metastasized to her lymph nodes. During the surgery, the metastasized lymph nodes had to be removed, and as a result, she stated that she has almost no lymph nodes left. Her experience serves as a testament to how breast cancer treatment involves more than just removing a tumor, as it can affect surrounding tissues and bodily functions.

Prior to her mastectomy, she consulted with plastic surgery medical staff. Anna explained that while she initially thought she would have to remove both breasts, the actual surgery differed from her expectations. The medical team worked to maintain her appearance as much as possible, and as a result, her outward appearance remains almost the same. "There is only a small scar at the incision site, but other than that, it is the same," she said regarding the surgical outcome.

However, even though her appearance was maintained, not all functions could return to how they were before. "However, I can no longer breastfeed. The internal tissue no longer functions," Anna revealed. She explained that while the external changes are not large, clear changes have occurred inside her body following the surgery. In particular, as a mother who has experienced childbirth and child-rearing, her mention of being unable to breastfeed drew attention.

Even after the surgery, management and the possibility of additional treatment remained. Anna noted that she understands that after a certain period following breast surgery, one must visit the hospital again for re-operation, mentioning she believed she was told she would need surgery again in about 10 years. Based on this, she noted there are approximately seven years remaining. This highlights that long-term follow-up and management can continue even after treatment is finished.

Originally from Switzerland, Anna married Park Joo-ho in 2015 and has two sons and one daughter. After announcing her battle with cancer in 2022, she has focused on her treatment and has been declared to be in complete remission; it is reported that she is currently pregnant with her fourth child. By sharing her experience, Anna is highlighting the importance of seeking accurate confirmation and treatment through medical professionals for those feeling anxious facing a cancer diagnosis.

Read the original (Korean)