These are MY terms of being at peace living with Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC). Being diagnosed with Stage IV MBC at the age of 31 was not my form of peace, but I live and exist in purpose.
I share my story because I want others going through to feel seen. There is so much power in sharing your story; it not only helps you heal, but it empowers others to do the same.
We need to knock and kick down every door possible to let politicians know that this is unacceptable. Money does not need to be spent on making people aware of cancer – we do not need sunglasses and pop sockets and hats and pins.
We need research that produces real results!
In working with women of color it can be very difficult to find resources that cater to our unique needs. For a lot of us, the mindset is if you are struggling with something, we are taught to rely on our faith. But that can be extremely difficult when you are faced with the unthinkable.
For the Breast of Us may have started as a place for women of color affected by breast cancer to connect and share stories about their experiences, but one year after launching it’s become so much more than that.
I’m hoping to learn from all of this — each and every day moving forward, letting the universe do its thing, as I understand my purpose. I’d love to be able to speak to other women and help in any way I can.
Being a breast cancer advocate starts at home by advocating for yourself and can expand as you become comfortable sharing your story and even connecting your community to resources that have helped you along the way. You don’t need access to anything or anyone special.
Many times I expected people to know what kind of support I needed. But I realize now, I didn’t know what kind of support I needed. As soon as I was diagnosed, people would offer to help, but I never knew exactly what to tell them. I lost myself. I never truly knew the extent of help I would need.
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.
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.
