Three years ago, my life flipped from being a scientist and devoted mom to navigating the complex world of breast cancer treatment in an instant. The journey through chemotherapy and a double mastectomy with reconstruction has imparted lessons that no medical professional could ever teach. If I could chat with my newly diagnosed self, here’s what I’d share:
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Modesty? What’s That?
Prepare to toss your modesty out the window faster than you can say “chemo.” While I’ve never participated in a flash mob, I’ve certainly flashed enough medical staff and curious friends to form one! I’m pretty sure I’ve shared my body with over 100 people since my diagnosis (yes, I kept track). Between the port for my chemo, mastectomy scars, and the new tattoos of trompe-l’œil nipples, my body became a public canvas. -
Love Surrounds You
The love you’ll receive will astonish you. Family, old friends, and even acquaintances will rally around you in ways you never expected. Meals will show up on your doorstep, and your friends will compete to accompany you through long chemo sessions. Your out-of-state sister might send you a stylish pair of shoes for treatment because she knows that’s your love language. You’ll be overwhelmed with gratitude. -
Breast Cancer is Everywhere
Similar to how pregnant women seem to pop up everywhere when you’re expecting, once diagnosed, you’ll notice breast cancer awareness ribbons at every turn. Especially if you’re diagnosed in October, the month dedicated to awareness, you’ll see pink everywhere. Grocery stores will prompt you to donate, and you might find yourself biting your tongue to refrain from explaining that you’ve already given more than enough. -
Immediate Reconstruction is a Myth
You may think that “immediate reconstruction” means a swift fix, but it actually refers to a process that starts at the mastectomy and often requires at least one more surgery down the line. Don’t let the term fool you! -
Breast Obsession
After a couple of surgeries, your perception of “normal” breasts might shift drastically. You’ll find yourself analyzing other women’s breasts, wondering how yours measure up (and hoping they don’t catch you staring). -
Conversations about the Unthinkable
You’ll find yourself discussing topics like drains and nipple tattoos in the most unexpected places. Much like new mothers bond over sleepless nights, you’ll connect instantly with anyone who has faced a breast cancer diagnosis. These chats can happen with anyone—from your neighbor to a dental hygienist, and even a friendly stranger at Starbucks. -
Capture the Moments
You’ll regret not having taken more pictures during your journey. Seeing snapshots of your smiling self with loved ones serves as a potent reminder of how far you’ve come and how much support you have. -
The Value of Breasts
You may not realize how integral your breasts are to your identity—even after you stop using them for nursing. While your surgeon might say you won’t have sensation, you may not grasp the emotional impact until it’s too late. It’s one thing to not feel a tattoo needle, but it’s another to miss the gentle touch of your partner or child. -
Bra-Free Life Awaits
You might think you’ll still need to wear a bra, but you’ll likely adjust to going braless pretty quickly since it’s challenging to find a fitting one. Friends may encourage you to try on all sorts of trendy tops since you can embrace a new style. -
Every Ache is Suspicious
After experiencing cancer, every little discomfort might trigger thoughts of a recurrence. A headache? Cancer. Odd hip pain? Cancer. But over time, you’ll find yourself forgetting to mention to new doctors that your nipples are not real. You’ll learn to live with your new normal, and it’s okay to be different.
The sobering truth is that around 30% of women diagnosed with breast cancer will face a metastatic recurrence that can be fatal. Despite advancements in treatment, the American Cancer Society reports that approximately 108 women die from breast cancer daily. As both a patient and a scientist, I urge you to understand the personal side of this disease while supporting the medical breakthroughs that can extend lives.
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In summary, surviving breast cancer is a tumultuous journey filled with unexpected lessons and revelations that transform your perspective on love, support, and personal identity.
Keyphrase: breast cancer lessons
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