Crystal Guide · Behind the Shop

My Breast Cancer Journey: 7 Things I Learned (Singapore)

By Jessica Woo, founder of Affinity Crystals · Updated 5 October 2026 · 5 min read

"You have cancer."

It was December 2025. The room was quiet except for my sister's sobbing. I was strangely numb.

This is Breast Cancer Awareness Month 🎀, and I want to share my journey and what I learned. This is my story, and it's not over. Thank you to everyone who made room for me.

1. Not knowing "what's next" was the hardest part

The fog was overwhelming. What happens now? How long? What do I tell people?

It lifted once my treatment plan was set. After that, we took things one step at a time. If you're newly diagnosed and the fog feels endless, ask your care team to walk you through the plan. Having a next step makes a real difference.

2. "But you don't look sick!" Most of cancer is invisible

I smile now at the kindness behind that sentence. Back then I was shuffling around, always looking for washrooms I could run to. "Managing" became my answer to "How are you?"

If someone you know is going through treatment, remember that how they look is only a small part of what they are carrying.

3. There is no pretty version of chemo

Pain. Exhaustion. A metallic taste in the mouth. Swollen joints. Low immunity. The works.

I knew my hair would fall out. I still bawled before shaving off the rest. Both things are true: you can be prepared and still be heartbroken.

4. Cancer brought my siblings and me closer

My siblings and I used to go silent for weeks. We always told ourselves there was time. Cancer ended that illusion.

I saw my brother's nonchalance give way to tears. The day we finalised our Wills was surreal. But I knew they had my back. I wouldn't wish this journey on anyone, but this blessing, I'll keep.

5. Positivity is not a treatment plan. Rest is.

People mean well when they say "stay positive!" But positivity doesn't treat cancer. Treatment does, and rest is part of treatment.

It's okay to not be okay.

6. Asking for help was possible, and I didn't have to be everywhere

Affinity Crystals is my baby. Letting go of it, even for a while, was hard. My friends, family and staff kept the shop running. They brought food. Some turned up just to give hugs.

I learnt I didn't have to always be there. Thank you. ❤️

7. Hope isn't linear

Some days hope sounds like "I'll stay in bed." Other days it sounds like "Let's go JB." Both count.

We are enough.

Affinity Crystals is partnering with the Breast Cancer Foundation

Some news. Affinity Crystals is partnering with the Breast Cancer Foundation (BCF) in Singapore. Through our donation sales, a portion of our earnings goes to BCF for early detection and survivor support.

We'll be running flash sales and live sessions on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and right here on affinitycrystalssg.com. Browse the shop to take part, and follow us so you don't miss a sale.

If you or someone you love is starting this journey

You're stronger than you know. And you don't have to do it alone.

Need a chat? Pop by the shop. There's soursop leaf tea waiting. If you're in Singapore and worried about a lump or overdue for a check, please speak to a doctor, and visit the Breast Cancer Foundation for information on early detection and support.

Please share this post so more people know we are in it together. ❤️

← All posts