How Harvinderpal Kaur Went from Weaning to a Life-Changing Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Breast cancer may have altered the course of her life, but Harvin’s story serves as a powerful reminder: no matter how overwhelming the challenge, with love, determination, and a solid support system, you can find your way through.
It started as an ordinary day. You’re juggling parenting, work, and the countless tasks on your mental to-do list. Breastfeeding? Just one more thing on the list, right? For Harvinderpal Kaur, or Harvin as her loved ones call her, the lump she discovered during weaning seemed like a harmless blocked duct—a common occurrence for breastfeeding mothers. Yet, that small, unassuming lump would soon turn her life upside down.
Early-onset breast cancer is on the rise. In Singapore, one in six women diagnosed with breast cancer is under the age of 45. This staggering statistic is a wake-up call for parents like you. The importance of self-examinations cannot be overstated, and if you’re in your 40s, annual mammograms could save your life. Don’t dismiss what your body is trying to tell you.
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When ‘Just a Lump’ Becomes Something More
Back in April 2021, Harvin, then 39, noticed a pea-sized lump in her left breast. Dismissing it as yet another blocked duct, she carried on. After all, who has time for self-pity when you’re weaning a child and keeping up with a second grader? Months passed, and when the lump reappeared—larger, harder, and more ominous—she couldn’t ignore it any longer.
Yet, like many of us, Harvin delayed. The Deepavali festivities took precedence, and her family came first. It wasn’t until November 2021 that she sought a doctor’s opinion. By then, her research—and that comforting “80% of lumps are benign” statistic—gave her a false sense of security. But reality hit hard when her doctor expressed concern.
The lump wasn’t just suspicious, it was breast cancer.
Facing the Diagnosis
Imagine sitting in a sterile examination room with your family. You’re trying to listen, but the word “malignant” drowns out everything else. Harvin’s diagnosis—Stage 2B, triple-positive breast cancer—came like a thunderclap. Her husband and six-year-old daughter were by her side when the doctor broke the news. The tears came, unbidden and unstoppable.
“Why me?” she asked herself, as many of us would. With no family history or genetic predisposition, the diagnosis felt random, even cruel. Her husband remained her rock, his calm demeanour providing a sliver of comfort amid the storm.
The Strength in Transparency
Source: Harvinderpal Kaur
Breast cancer is not just a diagnosis, it’s a journey. One that reshapes your identity and tests your resilience. Harvin chose openness. Together, she and her husband informed their families and shared updates on social media. The response was overwhelming. Neighbours, friends, and relatives offered prayers, hampers, and heartfelt messages of support.
Her two-year-old son was too young to understand, but her daughter knew enough to call it “a problem in the breast called cancer.” Harvin’s honesty allowed her daughter to process the situation in her own way, often lightening the mood with her chatter and play.
Battling Breast Cancer
Treatment began swiftly. Chemotherapy started just before Christmas 2021, followed by a lumpectomy, radiation, and immunotherapy. The physical toll was brutal. Imagine feeling like you’ve been hit by a truck—numb hands, body aches, ulcers—while still needing to be present for your kids. Harvin pushed through, drawing strength from her “village”: her parents, in-laws, siblings, and friends.
Her oncologist, Dr. Akhil Chopra, meticulously planned her treatment, ensuring she stayed motivated. Her friends sent soups; neighbours offered encouragement. Even her dog Zulu provided emotional support, refusing to eat until she did and shadowing her every move.
Finding Joy in the Darkest Times
Source: Harvinderpal Kaur
Despite the pain, Harvin refused to let cancer define her. She joined the Breast Cancer Foundation and participated in their Pink Ribbon Walk. Her friend’s advice—to only consume things that spark joy—became her mantra. She watched comedies, danced to Bollywood hits, and insisted on daily outings, no matter how short.
Her kids became her driving force. On her worst days, she would muster the energy to eat with them or attend her daughter’s classes. Her bald head didn’t deter her; she embraced it, meeting friends and going for runs. “I think I looked quite good bald!” she quipped.
A New Lease on Life
In May 2022, the long-awaited words “in remission” brought relief and gratitude. But Harvin’s journey didn’t end there. The cancer had changed her. She re-evaluated her priorities, integrating fitness, family time, and prayer into her daily routine. As a project manager, she became more assertive and purpose-driven, focusing only on meaningful work.
She rediscovered her love for hiking and dance, participating in duathlons and marathons. Her approach to life—less fretting, more growing—became her guiding philosophy. When something doesn’t work despite her best efforts, she’s learned to let go and move on.
Lessons for Parents
Harvin’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of listening to your body and acting quickly. As parents, it’s easy to prioritize everyone else, but your health is non-negotiable. Monthly breast self-examinations should be as routine as meal prep or bedtime stories. If you notice anything unusual—even if it seems minor—get it checked immediately.
Breast cancer doesn’t just affect you, it ripples through your family and community. But with early detection, treatment, and a strong support system, there’s hope.
A Reflection
Breast cancer doesn’t just impact the body, it changes everything about how you see the world, yourself, and your relationships. Harvinderpal Kaur’s story is a testament to resilience, love, and the strength found in community.
Looking back on her journey, it’s clear that every moment, from the initial discovery of the lump to her triumphant return to normalcy, was a battle fought not alone but surrounded by her “village.”
Every scan, every consultation, every chemo session brought with it fear and hope in equal measure. She talks about the numbness in her hands and feet, the way chemo left her feeling as though she’d been hit by a truck, and how her hair loss became a symbol of her fight rather than her defeat. Harvin’s transparency about her experience also served as a rallying point for her loved ones, who became pillars of strength when she needed them most.
Source: Harvinderpal Kaur
Her community rallied—family members moved in, friends sent food, and even her loyal dog Zulu refused to eat until she did. Harvin’s openness allowed her to receive the support she desperately needed, whether it was a hug, a prayer, or simply someone to sit beside her during the tough times.
Looking back, Harvin reflects on how the journey has reshaped her. The tears, the fears, and the triumphs have taught her to prioritize her health and happiness. She’s now living a life of purpose, challenging herself through fitness events and showing her children what it means to overcome life’s hurdles.
Breast cancer may have altered the course of her life, but Harvin’s story serves as a powerful reminder: no matter how overwhelming the challenge, with love, determination, and a solid support system, you can find your way through.
Take Action Today
Let Harvin’s story inspire you to prioritize your health. Schedule that overdue mammogram. Make self-checks a habit. Talk openly with your loved ones about the importance of breast cancer awareness. Your family needs you to be healthy, strong, and present—so don’t wait.
Because as Harvin’s journey shows, even in the face of adversity, there’s always room to grow, heal, and thrive.
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