"I am at an age where I don't take anything for granted - that's why I live life to the fullest"

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Katarina "Kattis" Thörnberg suffered an unwelcome switch

in the middle of her life. In 2022, she was diagnosed with

breast cancer. She decided early on to be open and talk

about the disease. 

 

-With the disease also came insights about the

vulnerability of life and being grateful for a lot of things

that you previously took for granted. I chose to have a

positive mindset through all the tough treatments,

although of course that didn't mean there weren’t

  moments of mental darkness and worry. For me, the

support from my family and friends was priceless. 

 

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You shared your journey through the disease and treatments on your social media. What reactions did you get?

 

Fantastic response and enthusiasm. Many people my age suffer from various diseases or other health issues. It can be inspiring to be transparent. It may not help physically, but it certainly helps mentally. Many people wrote to me and thanked me for my "openness" about the disease, which made them better able to deal with their own challenges.  

 

What changes have you made since your recovery? 

 

Had I not gotten breast cancer; I might not have dared to make my switch. I felt strongly that it was time to put myself in the driver's seat, to control my life the way I want to. So, I accepted a severance package from my top job at an international company (Ericsson) where I had worked for 17 years. I wanted to work less and change to an industry that has always been close to my heart: Music, dance, events and entertainment. Career and money are not as important as before, the most important thing is that every day feels meaningful.

 

How are you today? 

 

I feel very well, high on life and that I am in my prime. It is important to enjoy and see every day as a gift. Onwards to the future!