Xiaoqi’s Story

Xiaoqi Han was diagnosed with breast cancer on January 30, 2024, after what she expected to be a routine mammogram—one that had been delayed for a couple of years. In an instant, everything changed.

“My sky was falling.”

The shock of her diagnosis was immediate and overwhelming. Nights became long and restless as she searched for answers, trying to make sense of something that felt impossible to grasp.

“I was not able to sleep. I tirelessly looked for information about breast cancer in the middle of a sleepless night.”

Like so many, Xiaoqi found herself navigating both the emotional weight of the diagnosis and the urgency of learning everything she could about what lay ahead. But in the midst of that uncertainty, support began to take shape around her.

“My friend Michele came to help support me when I was waiting for my pathology and receiving treatment.”

She also turned to online communities—connecting with others who had walked similar paths, asking questions, and finding reassurance in shared experience.

“I asked for help in online groups… and connected with people who had a similar diagnosis.”

Looking back, she doesn’t wish she had done anything differently—only that she could have quieted the fear in those early days.

“I would have done the same thing all over again, but mentally I would be less panicking.”

Over the course of a year, Xiaoqi moved through treatment—an experience that, in some ways, surprised her.

“The treatment was not as bad as I thought.”

And yet, the toll was still very real—especially the ongoing challenge of sleep, something that has remained with her since the beginning.

Through it all, practical support made a meaningful difference. Help with everyday responsibilities—things like childcare and daily tasks—became essential pieces of getting through.

“Helping with chores and childcare is of tremendous help.”

“Someone helped send my child to summer camp while I was getting chemo.”

Now, having completed a full year of treatment, Xiaoqi finds herself in a new place—not just physically, but emotionally.

“It turned my life upside down… and it makes me want to contribute more to the world.”

Her perspective has shifted, shaped by both the difficulty of the experience and the support that carried her through it. Her advice is simple, but deeply rooted in what she’s learned:

“Find your support group.”

And for those standing beside someone going through cancer, her message is just as clear:

“Listening is important.”

Xiaoqi’s story is one of disruption—but also of direction. Of having life turned upside down, and choosing, in the aftermath, to move forward with intention, connection, and a renewed sense of purpose.