Oriental dance and breast cancer : Sorahia's testimony

We already met Sorahia and talked about her career in our blog article on Bellydance classes for children a few years ago. Today, we are interviewing her again on a completely different subject, more intimate, sensitive and feminine. We would like to thank her in particular for her trust and the sincerity of her answers, which will undoubtedly help other women affected by this ordeal and encourage prevention.

When and how did breast cancer enter your life?  

This cancer showed up in the summer of 2021, I discovered it while on vacation. I felt that I had a tiny lump in my breast that only grew bigger afterward until it reached 8 cm at the start of treatment.

Oriental dancing being a very feminine discipline, how have you managed to keep it intact despite the treatments and their various side effects?

Dancing means so much to me that there was never any question of stopping. Quite the opposite, I needed to dance even more and never created such beautiful choreographies as during I did this period.

What resources did you rely on to preserve your physical and mental abilities, and thus manage to maintain your job in Bellydancing?

Above all, I relied on myself. Being combative and resilient by nature, I have experienced quite a few challenges in my life which systematically strengthened me. I have always believed in myself and in my ability to move forward without cancer invading my everyday life.

However, has this ordeal had any positive effects on your approach to life and in particular your passion for oriental dance?

Ultimately, it was the most beautiful trial I've had in my life! Aside from the side effects, it was very beneficial in the sense that it cleared up and confirmed so many things! And when it comes to dance in particular, this experience confirmed my authenticity and originality. More than ever, I dance who I am.

When you decided to reveal your struggle to the general public, what were the reactions of the oriental dancers' community which follows you?

At first, I didn't want to talk about it, but then I told myself that I had to do it, especially for those who are going through this, to give them courage and tell them that everything is possible.
People were very surprised because I never stopped dancing, giving my Bellydance classes and workshops and performing. Eventually, I managed to keep my life going as before despite my haircut and wigs changing every week, as well as the care I was given. And I'm glad I did! Because it helped me stay focused on healing.
I refused to take cancer as inevitable. Also, I didn't want to lose my identity and only be seen as "the sick one". I hate seeing pity in other people's eyes. Unfortunately, there are people who look at you as if you are going to die tomorrow. And then, having to report every week on the results of the last exam, what the doctor said, the next steps... Even if they mean well, it's still parasitic when you're used to not talking about your private life like I am.

Let’s talk prevention with our readers. What actions and gestures protect and save lives?

There are no rules as such, but palpate yourself and getting tested is important.
Being sporty, not smoking and eating a very balanced diet, I could have thought I was safe but I was still affected so if in doubt, go and see a doctor! because the care is excellent when it is done in time.

Discover all of Sorahia's talents in this video: