On Friday, 22 September 2023, after returning from my morning gym session, I felt something unusual in my right breast while showering, which I can only describe as a macaroni-like shape. At first, I did not think much of it: however, in hindsight, I realised that I did not want to face the possible reality of breast cancer, and I tried to ignore my finding for the rest of the day.
My best friend was diagnosed with breast cancer two years before I felt the lump, and at that stage, she was in remission. My grandmother passed away from breast cancer when she was 60; I was 10 at the time. Growing up, cancer was something "normal", as I always knew my grandmother had cancer, yet she never showed us that she was actually very sick.
On the day I found the lump, I went on as normal. My daily focus was on growing my law firm and being the best attorney I can be for my clients. The possibility of breast cancer was most definitely not part of my planning.
The breast cancer diagnosis
A few days later, I arrived at the Groenkloof mammogram department for a mammogram and then a sonar. This was not a pleasant experience for someone so shy and private.
I received a call from the doctor, and I could hear in his voice that he did not have good news. He confirmed that my biopsy results tested positive for breast cancer and explained the next steps.
At the age of 42, my first thought was that I was the lucky winner of breast cancer in breast cancer awareness month.
The medical process
I was booked for an MRI to determine how invasive the tumour was, and I met with my oncologist for the first time. The oncologist explained that I had a tumour as well as cells which started to look like cancer cells in the same breast. Hearing all this was quite a shock, and I felt sorry that my husband, Riaan, also needed to deal with this challenge in our lives.
I underwent a CT scan to determine if the cancer had spread to other areas; luckily, it did not.
Going through all these tests was very traumatic. Your privacy is invaded by going through all these tests, but I went into autopilot mode and just did what I had to.
For me, the worst part was when I was lying in those machines. The only thing I had were the thoughts of what was happening to me.
The double mastectomy
Six weeks after my diagnosis, I was prepared by doctors for a double mastectomy. I had not yet processed anything that was happening to me at that stage.
Unfortunately, I could not get my reconstructive surgery yet because the medical team was unsure if I needed chemotherapy. My breast tissue was then sent to the US for an Oncotype test, which would determine if I needed chemotherapy and the likelihood of the cancer returning.
Later, the doctor explained that I had to get chemotherapy after all.
Chemo
I received my first chemotherapy session in early January 2024. After six weeks, my hair began to fall out.
During this time, I also gained more than 20kg because of the weekly cortisone I received with each session. This was very difficult to deal with, as there was nothing I could do about it.
The reconstruction
I received my reconstruction surgery on 1 September 2024. The date was so significant for me. Spring day was the first day of what I now refer to as my "new normal".
The importance of daily gym classes
The first thing I asked my oncologist was how long I could still do my daily gym classes. I literally went to the gym until the day before my double mastectomy.
I started doing ballet when I was three years old, did gymnastics, horse riding, and hockey while at school, and during school holidays I enjoyed going to the gym. When I attended university, I went to the gym between my classes.
Now, one of the most difficult things I had to do was cancel my longstanding gym membership.
After my double mastectomy, six months of chemotherapy, and reconstructive surgery, I was unable to exercise for a year. Just thinking about it now makes me very sad, as something I enjoyed so much was taken away from me.
On Fridays when I had my chemotherapy, I always thought of my Friday gym class — one of my highlights of the week.
However, something so special came from all of this. The ladies and the instructors at the various gym classes supported me so much throughout my breast cancer journey that we became friends for life. It is very difficult to describe in words what their support meant to me.
The start of my bodybuilding adventure
At the end of December 2024, I received the go-ahead from my specialist breast surgeon to start exercising again. I joined a gym, and the feeling of having a gym membership again was amazing. It is something many might see as a given and perhaps insignificant, but I will never take being able to go to the gym for granted again.
Since I can remember, I have been fascinated by women who participated in fitness and bodybuilding competitions. I always wanted to do it, but I never thought of myself as competent to work out at that level.
Something changed in me during my breast cancer journey, and I decided to pursue the sport.
I found the most wonderful and special coach, who is guiding me through this adventure. I'm planning to participate in my first bodybuilding/fitness competition in May, June or July 2026.
Statistics indicate that only between 0.5% and 1% of the population have the determination and dedication to make a success of this sport, and I hope that I will be able to make not only myself proud, but also my husband, friends and family when I get on stage at my first competition.
I started my bodybuilding journey on 1 August 2025, which includes meal plans, daily workout routines, weekly check-ins with my coach (feedback of the week, photos, weight-in, struggles, challenges and positives). Oh, and no wine. My husband and I really enjoy a glass of red wine, especially on a Friday afternoon, but for now, it is something I must give up to reach my goal.
I have also managed to lose the weight I gained during chemotherapy.
My journey in honour of my late best friend
Lastly, but most importantly, I am dedicating my fitness journey to my late friend, Lynette Whittal, who lost her life to breast cancer on 17 August 2025, at the age of 46. I was fortunate to be with her in her last moment; she fought her battle with such bravery and dignity. We laughed so much about the side effects of our chemotherapy sessions, and it was so special to share our breast cancer journeys.
When I decided to dedicate my journey to her, I discussed it with her and her husband, and she supported me until she took her last breath. I am now more determined than ever to make this a success in her honour. I want to celebrate her life and our friendship, as I have had a second chance to live my life to the fullest.
What breast cancer taught me
Life is not always sunshine and roses. Life is hard, life has challenges, and life disappoints us.
But you have a choice to live your life with negativity, or live your life by embracing the challenges and making them your new adventures.
About the author
Yolande Schoültz is the owner of Y Schoültz Attorneys, Conveyancers and Notaries and a Gawie le Roux Institute of Law alumna. You can follow her fitness journey on Instagram @Yolande_Schoultz and her professional journey on LinkedIn.
People also ask
What happens during Breast Cancer Awareness Month?
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. A variety of activities are arranged to increase knowledge about breast cancer, encourage early detection through screening and self-checks, raise funds for research and support services, and celebrate survivors. The month also aims to reduce the stigma associated with the disease and provide support to those affected by it.
Last updated on 05/09/2025