While it’s true that many women associate their breasts with their womanhood and deeply value them as a part of their femininity, it’s also true that not all of us feel this way. Breast cancer clarified this for me, in a stark and surreal fashion. The disease, insidious and grand, stripped me of what society …
Managing the Anxiety that Comes with a Breast Cancer Diagnosis
The landscape of life shifts tremendously after a breast cancer diagnosis. The reality is stark and the journey sprawling, feeling as though you have walked into a marathon without a warm-up. You find yourself standing on the edge of an uncontrollable situation and information. Among the many facets of this mammoth experience, the management of …
How family and friends can help those newly diagnosed?
Family and friends play a crucial role when someone is diagnosed with cancer. They can provide emotional and practical support that can make a significant difference. Firstly, it’s important to be there for her. Do not assure her that everything will be okay because, to her, it’s anything but okay right now. Just being present, …
The Toll a Breast Cancer Diagnosis Takes on a Marriage
Marriage is hard enough. Going through a breast cancer diagnosis is inherently stressful and it touches every facet of your life including your relationship with your spouse. Your health, your view of self, and your relationships are all deeply affected. A breast cancer diagnosis can put a huge strain on a marriage. Imagine it – …