To me, being a survivor means living my best life, not taking things for granted, and being present in the moment.
I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer and then found out I had a gene that made me susceptible to breast cancer as well. I could wait and see or I could prevent a worst-case scenario.
I told myself I didn’t need a man to make me happy and that was true, but the life partner assigned to me wouldn’t walk away when I felt unworthy, struggled with self esteem and body image or when all the woes of survival came to disturb my peace.
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.
I approached breast cancer like any other to-do; something “I” can handle.
All of my days weren’t the best and when they weren’t, I said it!
Too often there ends up being a racial disparity which creates a cycle – we don’t see other Hispanics, African Americans, or any other people of color involved, so we don’t participate. We end up losing out on programs because there aren’t enough of us willing to be the first and break that barrier.
No one prepares you for a broken vag when you’re 40 and diagnosed with breast cancer.
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.
