I remember arriving home after my mastectomy surgery, a little stoned, and very bewildered. It was my first surgery and I didn’t know what to expect going in. I knew even less about the recovery. Thank god for other women who had been through it before me and who were there to coach me through …
Self Care
Embracing Those Chemo Curls: Ellyn’s Styling Recommendations
Most of us know that chemotherapy will leave you bald. This is because the drugs used to attack fast-growing cancer cells in your body don’t discern, and attack ALL fast-growing cells, including your hair roots. It’s what happens when that hair grows back that gets extra fascinating. When your hair begins sprout (usually about three …
Gift ideas for someone recently diagnosed with breast cancer
When I was going through my treatment, having comforting items brought warmth to my heart. Each person’s preferences can vary, but here are a few gift ideas of things that I or my friends found helpful. Soft, cozy blankets and socks were my absolute favourite gift ideas – they were comforting, especially during treatment, and …
My mom has cancer. And I’m angry about it.
It’s completely normal and understandable to be feeling angry when your mom or another loved one has been diagnosed with breast cancer. Cancer is unfair and often brings up a multitude of complicated emotions. When I was diagnosed, it was not only a shock to me, but to my family as well. My kids, despite …
Understanding Your Breast Cancer Risk and the Gail Model for Risk Assessment
I believe that when it comes to breast cancer and knowing your risks, knowledge truly is power. Let’s talk about the GAIL Model of Risk Assessment and why it matters. Let’s start with a story that made headlines recently. You might have heard about Olivia Munn, the actress and now breast cancer advocate, who bravely …