BB Blog — Breast Cancer

I've just stumbled upon this magazine through social media (Instagram) and I just had to share immediately. More than a breath of fresh air, this magazine WILDFIRE is like a lightening bolt... a much needed one for me. I am in awe of the honesty, insight, knowledge, creativity and beauty of this publication (available in print and digital... with a free issue trial).

Here's what April Stearns has to say about why she started WILDFIRE Magazine

"I am now six years out from my breast cancer diagnosis, which occurred when I was 35. Over the years since that terrible day I have found the information and resources aimed at young breast cancer survivors to be lacking – yes, we all know about early detection and mammograms, but what about all the rest of it? What about the mental scars and physical side-effects? Rather than hearing from older women on issues related to lymphedema (though, honestly, I do want to talk about lymphedema, too), I want to hear from young survivors on issues related to this rich post-cancer-diagnosis life that are specific to being young -- dating, fertility, parenting, marriage, reconstructive surgery (or not), “scanxiety,” sexuality (and the pain associated with sex, right?), disease recurrence, etc.

And it turns out I'm not the only one feeling this way.

In case any of you missed the Guardian article by Victoria Lavin last Thursday please find the link below. An wonderful read. 

"Cancer is not a battle, hair loss does matter – and even doctors like me can’t prepare for the effects of chemotherapy".

She continues to write in the Guardian article about how her experience of having Breast Cancer will shape her future career. 

"In August 2017, during the last month of my maternity leave, I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer Initially, I was plagued by memories of the young patients I had discharged home or to the hospice for end-of-life care. Thankfully they are few – but they are the ones you remember. My experience of being on the other side of the consultation desk will shape my future career and it has helped me to understand what goes on for patients. It has been an education in patience, humility and gratitude.

First, there were the well-meaning stock phrases which I had so often used: “You’re so brave; you can fight this”. Really? Yesterday I was a 34-year-old clinical oncology trainee and mum of two, and today I’m a professional cancer warrior? Cancer didn't feel like a fight to me and I won’t be asking my patients to go into battle in future.

The biggest ego-bruising revelation was learning who makes the difference. As the doctor prescribing the treatment I always felt my role was the most crucial. For the patient, however, it’s the healthcare assistant who smiles when you walk in and gets you seen on time; the volunteer who brings you a cup of tea; the complementary therapist who offers reflexology and a chat during treatment; and the nurse who gets the cannula in at the first attempt." (AMEN to that!)

"Hair loss is something we often gloss over in busy clinics. I have been guilty of simply handing over a wig leaflet as the patient walks out of the door. It matters. It changes a person’s whole identity. I worried what my children would think and that it made me look like a victim. In the end, my daughter said: “Mummy, you’ve got no hair like Grandad Pete” and carried on making her Disney princess puzzle."

Feel comfortable and more confident in a Bold Beanie... made by someone who understands how it feels to lose your hair with Chemotherapy. 

*Firstly, I need to say that I have given great consideration as to wether I should share a photo, so if you are offended by this picture taken during the tattoo procedure I do apologise, however I think its important for other women to be able to see reconstruction... as its helped me. I will hopefully share more. Two Weeks ago I visited Vicky Martin to get Nipple Tattoos and end what has been a personal Breast Cancer Mastectomy body journey which has taken over a decade. I will need to go back for final touch ups, however I'm so happy...

On Saturday I will get Nipple Tattoos! These little cherries will literally mark the end of my very long journey of Breast Cancer, Double Breast Reconstruction. Having searched an researched a lot over the years and even contemplated a trip to the States, after a long wait I have found the perfect person to finish my nipples.  Having been surprised at every stage of the reconstruction process by how much better emotionally it made me feel (after the surgery had healed!). Restoring some of my femininity after many years with just one boob. Clothes fit me better and I have more shape. ...

Wishing all mothers, grandmothers and women that care for others out there a wonderful Mother's Day. I hope its filled with love. 

My thoughts are also with those who are missing their mothers on this day more than most. 

I was diagnosed with Stage 3 Advanced Breast Cancer at the age of 31 when my two daughters were just three and nine months, so I've had to face the reality of not being there for them and that they wouldn't remember me (I found this thought abhorrent). 

I am so very grateful to share avery day and this years Mother's day with my girls. I am very blessed and I don't take a day for granted. I've been given the opportunity to teach them, love them and protect them and for that I am very grateful.  

This week we have sent out lots of Bold Beanies Bouquets (cancer hats rolled to look like roses and presented in a gift bouquet) and single chemo hats made into gift roses and this makes me happy... a gift that is not just beautiful and thoughtful, but practical too. 

Bold Beanies are soft cotton breathable cancer headwear designed with minimal fuss to be super comfortable and easy to wear. Wear during the day to be stylish and feel confident and get on with our day... or as a breathable night cap. Coming soon cotton stretchy cancer plain and Liberty scarves to layer over beanies or on their own.