In this episode, Eylül Aşkın hosts journalist, writer, and poet Selhan Özdemir. Having worked for major newspapers such as Hürriyet and Milliyet, Selhan Özdemir currently continues her work in arts journalism as a columnist for habercaddesi.com and as the host of a program on Haber Caddesi TV. Recently, she received a diagnosis of breast cancer and underwent a minor operation. In our program, which focuses on this topic as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we also discussed her poetry book, songs, and future projects.
“My father wanted me to be a lawyer.”
Selhan Özdemir mentioned that her father, a prosecutor, wanted her to study law and become a lawyer. She stated, “I turned to journalism because I was curious. I thought I couldn’t practice law, but later I realized I could. However, my curious nature directed me towards journalism.”
“I was writing poetry during my journalism career.”
Selhan Özdemir, who decided to publish the poems she had previously written and set aside, has a poetry book titled “Gözüm Üstünde,” which has won three awards. She also composed melodies for three of her poems, stating, “Songs contain poetry within them.” Özdemir has three music videos as well.
Habib Babar Made an Offer.
Selhan Özdemir, who took a break from journalism for a while, shared her journey on habercaddesi.com: “One day, the phone rang. Dear Habib Babar said, ‘Would you write for me on habercaddesi.com?’ I really admire him; he is a master journalist. I started writing, and it has been four years now.” In her weekly column on the news site, Selhan Özdemir concludes the topics she discusses with poetry or a cartoon, and her column has gained significant interest.
“We Carried the Column to the Program.”
In addition to her columns, Özdemir is also the host of the “Duygu Seli” program on Haber Caddesi TV. She said, “We brought the same column to Haber Caddesi TV. I host valuable guests from all professions.”
She Discussed Her Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Process.
“I felt a hardness on my arm. I thought nothing was wrong with me for five to six months because I was very healthy. Then, I felt pain in my breast. Eventually, I called a senior doctor who told me to please go for a check-up. I went, got my tests done, and was diagnosed with breast cancer,” Selhan Özdemir explained about her diagnosis process. She added, “In the hustle and bustle of work, a person doesn’t realize their own importance.”
“Check-ups Are Essential!” She Urged Women!
After her breast cancer treatment, Selhan Özdemir expressed that she now undergoes regular check-ups and emphasized their importance. “When detected at an early stage, there are no issues at all. I kindly ask our viewers to please get your regular check-ups done once a year for peace of mind. In October, during Awareness Month, let’s focus on this issue together even more,” she said.