At just 26 years old, Miyabi Kuroiwa from Nagoya, Japan, was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer. In October 2022, she discovered a lump in her left breast while taking a bath. A medical examination confirmed that the cancer had already spread. Shocked by the news, she sat in silence while her grandmother wept beside her.
Despite the devastating diagnosis, Miyabi’s life took an unexpected turn when her boyfriend, Taisei, immediately rushed to be with her. Overwhelmed by emotion, he proposed on the spot, vowing to stand by her side no matter what. The couple moved in together the next day and officially registered their marriage in November 2022.
Miyabi’s treatment began in early 2023 at the Aichi Cancer Center, where her doctor encouraged her to fight for at least five more years. As she prepared for chemotherapy, she made the painful decision to shave her head, struggling with the emotional impact of losing her long hair. The stress of her condition and treatment caused her to gain weight, and the severe side effects forced her to increase her pain medication. She found herself sinking into despair.
A turning point came when she decided to share her story on social media. Posting about her journey on X, she received countless messages of support from strangers, urging her not to give up. The encouragement from people she had never met gave her a renewed sense of purpose.
Determined to embrace life fully, Miyabi and Taisei began traveling, attending live performances, and focusing on the joys of everyday life. She continued to document her experiences online, inspiring others with her courage and optimism. Eventually, a YouTuber invited her to become an online adviser for cancer patients, allowing her to offer one-on-one support to those navigating similar struggles.
Though her tumour has shrunk, her battle is far from over. Each time her cancer develops resistance to medication, she must transition to a new treatment. Despite the uncertainty, she refuses to lose hope. Her greatest motivation is her husband, who relies on her deeply.
“I have to live,” she says with a smile, determined to continue fighting, not just for herself but for the people who love and believe in her.
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