20/10/2024
It’s still October and Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so I feel called to share my thoughts.
Breast Cancer ‘Survivor’
You made it!?
The word “survivor” is a tricky one for me personally, and I think it could be quite triggering for some, however well-intended its use may be.
For those who aren’t so lucky… what word describes them?
Or those who are given a less positive outlook — do they continue “surviving”?
The word carries a tone of fear, don’t you think?
I prefer ‘warrior.’
Who wants to just survive in this life anyway? Surviving sounds like a struggle to me.
Have you ever heard the phrase: ‘Don’t just survive, thrive’?
We all deserve to thrive in this life.
A warrior, on the other hand, is brave and strong. They fight battles, and they bear the scars.
But don’t underestimate breast cancer warriors. We lucky ones who did “survive” still bear the physical and emotional scars…
Many of us, including me, lost a part of ourselves, both physically and emotionally, when breast cancer targeted us.
Beneath the nice outfits and smiles we wear is a hidden memory, permanently imprinted on our bodies.
I’m not saying this for sympathy.
Breast cancer is just another part of my journey…
But I still, at times, feel the effects of this particular battle I’ve fought.
I’m so grateful I’m still here, 4 years on… That is the ultimate gift, and I would sacrifice anything for that.
But surviving means you bear the scars.
It doesn’t go away, and why shouldn’t you want to feel “normal” again — whatever “normal” is!
The ideal female form is constantly in front of you, reminding you of how different you now look and feel beneath those nice outfits, 24/7.
I’m privileged to help ladies on their journey by tattooing areolas back onto their broken but beautiful bodies following reconstructive surgeries.
We’re in a private club together… one you never really want to be in.
These women are warriors! And I’ve met some of the most wonderful women on this journey.
So today, I want to give a shout-out to all the beautiful, brave, strong women who have fought and continue to fight.
And let’s remember those who fought and lost the battle.
You are ALL warriors in my eyes.
