As a triple-negative, BRCA1+ breast cancer survivor who had a bilateral non-nipple sparing mastectomy with reconstruction and oophorectomy-salpingo with a full hysterectomy, the loss of body parts that were intertwined with my identity as a woman was devastating.

The struggle was very real.

My post-cancer body didn’t come with instructions.

However, it did come with: scars, nerve damage, loss of sensation, numbness, PTSD, anxiety, depression, body image issues, unexplained aches and pains, weight gain, and early menopause that put a huge damper on my W.A.P.

I put out an APB for my sexy, unsure if it could be brought back, but I was willing to do the work.

Through a mindfulness-awareness study for breast cancer survivors at the University of California, Los Angeles, I realized the exact moment I disconnected from my body.

The day I was diagnosed.

Practicing mindfulness meditation, affirmations, and yoga helped restore my connection with my body.

Therapy of all kinds, you name it I did it, helped me recognize, confront, and deal with my traumas and issues that were brewing, simmering, and/or dormant deep down.

Participating in SkinWars, being an ambassador for AnaOno Intimates, and being featured in the Haus of Volta Self Love After Breast Cancer calendar also greatly impacted my self-confidence and self-esteem.

What always empowers me and gives all that I’ve been through meaning is sharing my story of how and why “I Fight Like a Grown-Ass Woman.”

My Naked Truth — not hiding or covering up my body in shame or embarrassment is liberating!

I’ve learned it’s actually where my sexiness shines, in the freedom to be me unapologetically. Through my post-cancer journey, I discovered I didn’t have to bring sexy back because it lives in me.

I am who I am and that’s sexy AF!