My first breast surgeon gave me the news that I had cancer and the choice to keep my “healthy” breast. They didn’t explain my condition or their plan of action the way that I expected. In fact, the eight minutes I sat with them was not enough time to explain very much at all about anything.
IBC is real and it doesn’t always appear like a typical breast cancer diagnosis. Pain, swelling, discoloration, change in appearance are all a part of IBC. If any doctor tells you that breast cancer doesn’t hurt, that’s a lie.
This body got me through cancer, and I am proud of it. By being vocal and sharing my story and images I hope that surgery without reconstruction becomes less of an outlier, and more of a viable choice for young women.
This experience has opened my eyes and mind to treat my body as a temple and to step outside of my fears.
“Surviving” breast cancer two times. “N’ Shit” the anxiety, daily aches and pains from my medication, running the non-profit, working full time, being a wife, mom…and still trying to live my best life.
I know that tomorrow is not promised, so I make it my business to live each day like it’s my last.
Your breasts play a huge part in your sexuality. It felt good to have them touched, kissed. It turned me on and now…nothing.
Something I’ve realized since I finished treatment is that, yes we are done and that’s great but we are sent out to deal with the after effects on our own.
No, it did not run in my family. No, I never drank, used drugs or smoked. No, I didn’t eat sugar. Yes, I took care of my body, yet it showed up anyway.
I really think it’s important to have people by your side, it helps you to get through. You know you have people out there that are fighting with you.
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.
