Thriving Through the Tough Times: Four Tips for Women Facing Breast Cancer

Hey sis, if you're reading this, chances are you're navigating the challenging journey of breast cancer. As women, we face unique challenges when it comes to our health, and dealing with breast cancer is no exception. From the physical effects to the emotional and mental toll, it can feel like an uphill battle.

But fear not, to all my beauties out there in the thick of treatment, here are four tips on how to manage it:

1 – Lean on Your Squad:

You know that saying, "It takes a village"? Well, when it comes to battling breast cancer, that village becomes more important than ever. During my own journey, I realized that I was nothing without my squad. I had to shift my mindset from being the strong woman who always had it together to someone who could ask for and accept help. That shift was a game-changer! Surround yourself with people who lift you up. Whether family, friends or a support group, having folks who get it can make all the difference. Don't hesitate to lean on them when you need to vent or need some love.

2 – Self-Care Is Key:

During my journey, self-care looked like seizing every moment I felt good enough to do it. Whether it was a 20-minute yoga session or a walk in the park, moving my body on the days I could was a way of self-care and beating cancer, at least that day! Take care of yourself, sis. Putting your needs last is easy, but you're a priority. Find what brings joy and make time for it.

 3 – Speak Up:

One of the hardest parts of this journey is feeling like you're alone. But trust me, you're not. Don't suffer in silence, boo. When I felt down, connecting with others who understood was a lifeline. Facebook groups with women like me saved me. This journey feels isolating, but in those groups, you know you're not alone. If the emotional or mental weight gets heavy, talk to your healthcare team. They're there to help. Therapy, meds, or coping strategies—they're options. Don't be afraid to ask.

4 – Focus on the Future:

I know people say live in the present, but when you're dealing with breast cancer, you don't want to be there. So, I honestly focused on my future as if I wasn't sick. I took the time during my disability from my full-time job to study for my NASM personal training certification. That distraction from what was really happening helped me stay positive. I even took the test and passed the day before I was starting chemotherapy! What does the future look like for you after breast cancer? How do you envision your life after breast cancer, and what changes would you make to achieve that vision? Start taking small steps toward that version of your life now.

Remember:

You're strong, you're beautiful, and you've got a whole community behind you. And this is just another way to declare, "Cancer, I Won!"

Groups:

Breast Cancer-Invasive Ductal Carcinoma Women’s Group

Breast Cancer Baddies: A breast cancer community for women of color

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