Grace Ladoja, cultural curator and founder of Homecoming Festival has opened up about her ongoing cancer journey, revealing that she was diagnosed with breast cancer in August 2025. Known for her influential work shaping global culture through music and platforms, Ladoja shared that her diagnosis initially began as DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ), a stage 0, non-invasive form of cancer discovered during a routine check-up despite having no visible symptoms or signs of illness.

In October 2025, she underwent a mastectomy, a surgical procedure involving the removal of breast tissue. However, further histology testing revealed something more serious: invasive stage 2 cancer was present within the tissue. Reflecting on that moment, she said,

 “I was overwhelmed, it was insane.” 

Following the updated diagnosis, doctors instructed her to begin chemotherapy immediately.

Ladoja then made the decision to freeze her eggs before starting treatment, moving quickly into a 12-week chemotherapy plan. She underwent treatment weekly, every Monday, while travelling between Nigeria and London for appointments. Speaking of the experience, she described the process as emotionally, physically and mentally taxing, adding,

“I feel so blessed to have survived that because it’s really intense.” She also noted that her journey is ongoing, with more treatments and surgeries still ahead.

Alongside detailing the physical toll of treatment, Ladoja used her platform to highlight something less visible: the emotional and internal weight people carry quietly. She urged others to approach people with more kindness, especially on social media, noting that individuals don’t always “look like what they’re going through.” It’s a sentiment that reframes her experience beyond illness, pointing to a wider conversation around empathy and assumption.

With her birthday approaching this week, Ladoja shared that she’s entering a new age feeling both reflective and grateful. The moment marks not just another year, but a continuation of a journey that has required resilience, urgency, and perspective.

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