Empowering Women with Knowledge about Breast Cancer: Reflections from Breast Cancer Survivors
Empowering Women with Knowledge about Breast Cancer
Reflections From Breast Cancer Survivors
Sidney Rustvang, Gateway Automotive
On behalf of Gateway Automotive I am thrilled to be a part of “Empowering Women with Knowledge about Breast Cancer” alongside BIO Girls and Edith Sanford Breast Center. This blog post serves as a continuation of the podcast, offering a deeper exploration of the breast cancer journeys of two survivors.
Breast cancer is a journey that few can truly understand unless they’ve walked that path themselves. Recently, I had the profound privilege of speaking with two courageous women who have faced this battle head-on. Their reflections and advice for young women navigating similar challenges offer a blend of raw honesty and invaluable wisdom.
When asked what advice they would give to younger women just beginning their breast cancer journey, their responses were both heartfelt and revealing.
One survivor shared a realization about her own experience: “It’s on me, but I felt I was a little naive. I didn’t realize how hard it was going to be. The doctor told me, but I didn’t really hear them. It was harder than I thought.” She admitted that she had put off going to the doctor because she thought it was nothing serious, and she didn’t prioritize her health. Other aspects of life took precedence over her own well-being. “It’s so important to make our health a top priority and cherish good health,” she emphasized. Her experience underscores the critical need to listen to our bodies and seek medical advice regularly, especially when in doubt. “We can’t control everything, but we can control our decisions when it comes to healthy choices,” she noted. “You own your body. Do what you can to keep it strong and healthy.” This proactive approach is vital. By making conscious decisions about diet, exercise, and regular check-ups, we can maintain our health and potentially catch issues before they escalate.
Her reflections highlight a common struggle among those facing serious illness: the gap between what we are told and what we truly grasp. Despite being informed about the difficult road ahead, she found herself unprepared for the emotional and physical toll cancer would take. This insight serves as a crucial reminder that understanding and empathy are essential for anyone supporting a loved one through such a journey.
She also expressed a desire for greater honesty in sharing personal experiences. “I wish people could be more honest about their experience,” she said. “People shouldn’t feel like they have to protect others so much from what they are experiencing.” Her experience underscores the importance of transparency and genuine connection. It’s crucial for those going through such trials to express their true feelings and experiences, rather than shielding others from the harsh realities of their journey.
At the same time, she acknowledged the necessity of maintaining some semblance of normalcy. “It’s still important to find joy in each day,” she advised. “It’s okay to fake it on bad days, but it’s also important to be honest if you’re having a really terrible day and to open up about the feelings you are experiencing.” Her perspective is a testament to the complexity of managing illness and emotional health. On tough days, it’s alright to put on a front, to push through despite feeling drained. Yet, it’s equally vital to allow oneself the space to express vulnerability and seek support when needed. As she put it, “Today sucks, but I still need to get up and keep fighting.”
Her resilience and candidness offer a powerful lesson for anyone navigating their own health struggles. It’s okay to have bad days and to admit that things aren’t always okay. Balancing honesty with the need to keep moving forward is a delicate dance, but it’s one that can help sustain both mental and emotional well-being.
In her experience, her advice resonates deeply: embrace the full spectrum of your emotions, seek truth in shared experiences, and find moments of joy wherever possible. Her journey is a reminder that while the path through breast cancer comes with challenges, it is also paved with strength, courage, and an enduring spirit.
The second survivor shared that one of the most helpful aspects of her experience was talking to others who had gone through breast cancer. These conversations provided her with a different perspective compared to what she received from doctors and nurses. The personal insights and preparation from those who had been through it helped her manage expectations and understand what to expect. Inspired by the support she received, she now offers her own support to others diagnosed with breast cancer, meeting with them to share her experiences and provide guidance, just as her friends had done for her.
She emphasized the importance of early detection as she was initially informed about her dense breasts during a routine appointment. She was advised to have annual diagnostic mammograms because her dense breasts increased her risk for breast cancer. It was during one of her annual diagnostic mammograms where a suspicious area was detected, leading to biopsy and a cancer diagnosis. The initial recommendation was to have a lumpectomy and undergo radiation. However, she decided to seek a second opinion, which was crucial because it revealed that she had two different types of breast cancer. The second opinion ultimately led to an MRI which found the second breast cancer in a completely different part of the breast from where the first cancer had been found. In addition to early detection, second opinions and requesting different types of scans (diagnostic mammogram, ultrasound, MRI), if you have dense breasts, as they see different things is a good way to advocate for your health.
In her experience, she highlighted the importance of having a strong support system and being open to accepting help. She encouraged people to be supportive of others facing life challenges, and to accept support themselves. Her journey underscores the value of community support, the necessity of second opinions, and the importance of early detection and proactive healthcare.
I initially considered using the word "obstacle" to describe the experience of dealing with breast cancer, as it accurately conveys the significant challenges and difficulties involved. However, after speaking with these two remarkable women who have navigated their own battles with breast cancer, I realized that "journey" might be a more fitting term. Their experiences, though full of obstacles, also encompassed personal growth, resilience, and transformation. Their stories illustrate how, despite the profound challenges, the journey through breast cancer can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and a renewed sense of purpose. Thus, "journey" better captured the comprehensive nature of their experiences, reflecting not only the struggles but also the growth and strength that emerged from them.
I am deeply grateful to these women for sharing their experiences and advice. Their insights into prioritizing health, embracing honesty, and building a solid support network are invaluable and will undoubtedly benefit others facing similar journeys.
*Disclaimer: Please note that I am not a medical professional. The information shared in this blog post is based solely on the personal experiences of individuals who have navigated their breast cancer journeys. Their insights and stories are provided with their consent, but they wish to remain anonymous. For any medical concerns or advice, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. Your health and well-being are paramount, and professional guidance is always recommended.
- Sidney Rustvang, Gateway Automotive
