Meet community member and model, Jennifer! Jennifer modeled for us for our recent mesh shoot, but she has been a part of the AnaOno community for some time now! Read along to hear all about Jennifer's breast cancer story and much more!
What was your experience like when you were first diagnosed with breast cancer?
"I was numb. I was a 47-year-old woman going in for a yearly mammogram. I was completely blindsided with a HER2+ diagnosis having no symptoms and no lumps. Now I was making big decisions fast. My calendar filled fast with doctor appointments. For the first few months, I was in a fog and desperately searching for answers to calm my mind. I wasn't sleeping and played out every worst-case scenario possible. I only wanted to talk with others who had the same breast cancer diagnosis. I just wanted someone to say it was going to be OK. I knew pretty early in the process that I did not want reconstruction/breast implants. I wanted to focus on my upcoming dmx surgery and chemotherapy. Several female doctors on my team tried to talk me out of this. They felt I was young and would regret this decision. 2 years later - no regrets."
What is something that you would like other to know about recovery?
"I was told several things on this long journey. One was to look for good days during treatment because there are many - this was true. Another was to not look at the entire picture - focus on one step at a time and try not to stress so much. I took advantage of terrific local organizations that helped breast cancer patients. Once I was feeling better I volunteered with some of these organizations. It felt good to give back and to help others. I use my free time to help others that are newly diagnosed. I listen and answer any questions I can. I share a lists of helpful websites, items that I used in my breast cancer journey and remedies that helped me. No matter how surrounded you are by love, cancer can be a very lonely journey."
If there was one thing you would like the community to take away from your story, what would it be?
"Do not let anyone make decisions for you. Take all the information you are given and do what you feel is right for you. Going flat was not a popular decision but I knew it was the right decision for me and I fought to get what I wanted. Also, find the happy moments in your journey."
Has your relationship with your body changed? If so, how?
"YES!!! I feel my body betrayed me. It took away something I loved. I had my beautiful breasts amputated. It was traumatic and scary. I could not believe I was going through this at 47..."
"I am slowly learning to love my new body. My wardrobe is now different but I don't ever hide being flat. I am proud of how strong I am."
If you could describe AnaOno in one word, what would it be?
"Comfort"
What did it mean to you to participate in our photoshoot?
"Everything. This gave me confidence. I lost my breasts, all my hair, went through weight loss and gains and at times my self-esteem was at a low point. I was not the person I was before breast cancer. This opportunity was amazing. Everything about it - the kindness of the staff, the hair/makeup and the photos! You guys rock!"
