October 20, 2022
My birthday was amazing! I was one of twelve models at the survivor celebration of life fashion show (Breast Reconstruction Awareness day) and walked the runway at the medical museum in Philly. It was wild. I got there and realized I was modeling underwear! It was pants and a bra with a shrug thing. I was so confused until I realized there was no top but I did it because I said I would. I was honored to be a model of an actual bra designed by a 12 year survivor with breast cancer survivors in mind. It was a very touching wonderful event. They had a big birthday cake made for me as a surprise and the audience sang happy birthday. I got to see both my surgeons again. The audience was Penn Oncology, Penn Plastic Surgery, survivors, family and friends.
I hugged my surgeons and thanked them profusely for the wonderful jobs they did. I tried to wear my mask in close proximity but thankfully my white blood cells were up for my birthday! I told them I would be thankful for the rest of my life for the work they did and continue to do. I met the head of oncology and the head of plastics at Penn and they were so kind to me. All the survivors were out of treatment and couldn’t believe I was 10 weeks from DIEP and about to do my second chemo. Everyone cried, hugged me and encouraged me they understand what I am facing. It was an unbelievable night with catered food and gift bags. My best friends in PA cam and brought me flowers. The marketer of the event told me she would love to help me help more people with my youtube channel. I am so thankful to have a project to work on that can benefit someone else. This experience is not an easy one and if sharing it can help even one person, it is worth every effort on my part.
Then the next day and got my AC (red devil) chemo # 2 done. After chemo, I took a mile walk with my family and went home to rest. I hope I’ll continue on this way, I try to force myself out of bed and stay active for my family and myself. I know I am carried by the fierce love of my friends, family and pink sisters. It gives me energy when I need it most. Every adventure begins with a challenge and this is one of mine, thank you for walking with me on my path. I love you all more than words can say.
