Ever since my diagnosis, I’ve been drawn to symbols of resilience, strength, and transformation, finding comfort and inspiration in them while navigating my own journey through breast cancer. Among these symbols, it’s a small butterfly pendant – barely the size of my fingernail that carries the most profound meaning and resonates with my spirit. My …
What Does Hair Regrowth After Chemotherapy Look Like?
I knew I would lose my hair to chemo. I worried that it wouldn’t grow back. There is a small percentage of people for whom alopecia is a permanent thing and hair regrowth does not occur. I could deal with being temporarily bald, being permanently bald was another thing. My heart goes out to those women …
Surgeon, See the Woman, Not Just the Patient
Breast cancer is more than a medical condition; it’s a life-altering journey that indelibly marks the body and the soul. As a breast cancer survivor who chose aesthetic flat closure (AFC), I’ve learned the profound importance of a surgeon’s understanding and empathy. I understand that surgeons are trained to dissect, diagnose, and even disconnect. Your …
Medical Gaslighting and Women’s Health – a Breast Cancer “Rebel” Speaks Up
Many of us instinctively turn to medical professionals when we encounter health problems, entrusting them with physical, emotional and mental health well-being. Unfortunately, there can be a hidden struggle that is rarely exposed. It’s called medical gaslighting and its a struggle that arises when medical practitioners dismiss or minimize the concerns of patients, particularly women. …
Pro Tips for Mastectomy Surgery Recovery
My mastectomy surgery was my first ever and I had no idea what to expect. Here are some pro tips that worked for me and that I’d like to pass along. The first few days after a mastectomy are uncomfortable. You are healing from the surgery and the effects of anesthesia and you have drains …