After I had my bilateral mastectomy in 2017, I decided on immediate DIEP flap reconstruction. During the process of explaining to me some intricacies of the surgery, my plastic surgeon mentioned that my nipples would always be at attention – um, excuse me?
At the age of 43, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I was an emotional mess but the one constant thing that helped me survive was running.
Preparing for surgery can be a scary and exciting time…whether this is happening at the beginning of your cancer diagnosis, the middle or the end, it’s one more mountain to climb, and climb you will!
To the woman whose name isn’t mama, but so desperately wants to be called that beautiful word, Mother.
Listen, I am here for a good time. I’ve been blessed to be here and I’m going to live everyday!
How do you prepare yourself mentally and emotionally for losing your breasts, how do you say goodbye to your boobs?
It isn’t easy to begin again, because after treatment, that’s what it feels like; like starting over. But I found something that not only eases my emotional pain and anxiety, but that of others as well. And for that, I am thankful.
I feel reborn in a sense. Life can change in a matter of minutes. I learned to live my best life!
Signing in at oncology clinics while the older patients question if I’m in the right place. Going to support groups as the “breast cancer baby” because everyone else is two or three times my age. Being constantly told that I am “too young” to have breast cancer and yet, here I am – the odd girl out.
I felt invigorated. I felt inspired. I felt SEEN. I had never been in a situation where I was surrounded by so many kick ass women. They had all been through what I was going through, and that was powerful for me.
Your voice, your story, and your support can make a difference. Join For the Breast of Us in our mission to empower, support, and advocate for women of color across the globe. Together, we can create a future where every woman has the resources and support she needs to overcome breast cancer.
On the Web:
www.breastofus.com
www.breastofusfoundation.org
Email:
hello@breastofus.com
Welcome to our community—where hope thrives, strength is found, and sisters in the fight become family.
