Former Pakistani television actress Arij Fatyma has shared the news of her recovery from a rare and aggressive form of cancer, opening up for the first time about her four-month battle with the disease.
In a heartfelt video posted on Instagram, the Hassad star revealed that she had been diagnosed with choriocarcinoma — a cancer that develops from uterine tissue and can spread rapidly to other parts of the body. It often arises after a molar pregnancy, in which abnormal tissue forms instead of a normal pregnancy.
“My life was going very well. I never took things too seriously and thought I would live a long life. I even skipped prayers at times,” she said in the video. “Then, in just a few hours, everything changed. I fought for my life, not knowing whether I would survive.”
The actress disclosed that she underwent major surgery during her treatment and chose not to speak publicly at the time out of fear of being judged. “People can be quick to assume the worst and question your character,” she noted.
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According to Areej, her diagnosis deeply affected her family, who supported her throughout the ordeal. She urged fans not to judge others by what they see on social media and to prioritise their health. “If you feel something is wrong, don’t ignore it or treat it with home remedies. Get yourself checked,” she stressed.
While Areej is now cancer-free, she will undergo follow-up tests for years to ensure the disease does not return. “The thought of recurrence keeps me grounded, reminds me of death, and pushes me to live more meaningfully,” she said, requesting her followers to keep her in their prayers.
Arij Fatyma left the entertainment industry in 2019, two years after marrying Dr Uzair Ali. She now lives in Ohio, USA, with her husband and their two sons.
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