'The baldness was a shock, now I walk with pride'

The early morning phone call on October 7th brought devastating news to Gali Shachar: her partner, a combat officer, had been wounded fighting Hamas terrorists near the Gaza border. He was receiving treatment at Ichilov Hospital, and the extent of his injuries was immediately apparent – a bullet had entered his nose and narrowly missed his eye.

A Sudden Shift in Roles

While her partner fought for his life and eventual return to the front lines, Shachar, then 22, began experiencing a series of unsettling symptoms. Initially dismissing stomach pains as a common experience during a time of widespread conflict, she soon found herself battling escalating issues: abdominal swelling, diarrhea, night sweats, and debilitating fatigue. She attributed these ailments to the stress, sleeplessness, and constant worry surrounding her partner’s safety.

A Lingering Unease

Eight months later, with her partner finally released from service, Shachar felt a sense of relief. However, her physical discomfort persisted. Encouraged by her partner to seek medical attention before a planned family trip to Italy, she reluctantly agreed to get checked. The results, delivered via email in May, revealed a shocking diagnosis: lymphoma, with a preliminary indication of Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

Did You Know? Ten people between the ages of 18 and 45 are diagnosed with cancer every day in Israel, according to information Shachar learned after her own diagnosis.

From Caregiver to Patient

Shachar, a model and fitness professional based in Tel Aviv, had a history of supporting others through cancer. She had encouraged a close friend through her own battle with Hodgkin’s lymphoma and even assisted in the writing of a recovery book. Prior to her diagnosis, she had also worked as a personal trainer for cancer survivors and patients undergoing treatment, becoming a caregiver before needing care herself.

The diagnosis of stage 4 Hodgkin’s lymphoma brought a new perspective to Shachar’s life. She reflected on the near-fatal injury her partner sustained on October 7th, recognizing the resilience of the human body and the unpredictable nature of life. She recently completed chemotherapy treatments.

Facing Challenges and Finding Strength

Shachar’s journey hasn’t been without its difficulties. She experienced career setbacks, with some companies ending collaborations upon learning of her diagnosis and visible hair loss. Her family struggled with the news, but her partner remained a steadfast source of support, promising to stand by her side.

Expert Insight: Facing a cancer diagnosis at a young age often involves navigating not only the physical challenges of treatment but also significant emotional and social disruptions, including impacts on identity, relationships, and career aspirations.

Shachar has begun sharing her story on social media, connecting with others facing similar challenges and raising awareness about cancer in young adults. She acknowledges the potential role of stress, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict, but emphasizes the uncertainty surrounding the causes of cancer.

Looking Ahead

Despite the challenges, Shachar remains optimistic and determined. She has resumed her modeling work, participating in campaigns that promote physical activity during illness, such as the “Braid of Strength” project with Pantene. She embraces both her baldness and the use of wigs, finding empowerment in both expressions of self.

Shachar’s future goals include opening an oncology gym to provide specialized fitness support for cancer patients and survivors. She also dreams of finally taking the trip to Italy with her partner, a journey postponed due to her illness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What were Shachar’s initial symptoms?

Shachar initially experienced stomach pains, which worsened into abdominal swelling, diarrhea, night sweats, and crushing fatigue.

When did Shachar receive her cancer diagnosis?

Shachar received her cancer diagnosis via email in May, shortly before a planned family trip to Italy.

What is Shachar’s long-term goal?

Shachar’s long-term goal is to open an oncology gym to provide specialized fitness support for cancer patients and survivors.

Considering Shachar’s journey and her commitment to raising awareness, how might sharing personal experiences with health challenges impact broader conversations about well-being and support?

‘The baldness was a shock, now I walk with pride’