Neither our planet, nor our bodies contain a reset button, so why do we treat them as if they do?
I think of myself as a Green Uniboober – I am a breast cancer survivor with an interest in sustainable living. I believe that we all need to make a better effort to live more holistically and behave more compassionately towards one another and our planet.
When I was 26, pregnant with my first child and six weeks away from my due date, I found a lump in my breast. The biopsy showed abnormal cells consistent with impending lactation. At the time the surgeon gave me the option of having the growth removed, but I was dead set against unnecessary surgery.
When my daughter was 16 months old, the lump had grown to the size of an egg and become so dense it was uncomfortable to lie on my stomach. When I had it rechecked an ultrasound-guided core biopsy found ductal carcinoma. After fighting to obtain “permission” to continue nursing my 16 month old daughter one sided (yeah I’m a hippie), I had a mastectomy on January 27, 2003.
As a result, I became passionate about promoting environmental awareness and worked to help connect women affected by breast cancer with others helping to ensure that no one fails to receive the support and friendship essential to true healing.
Though I’m open to talking with individuals about the details of this story, I no longer identify myself as a ‘cancer survivor’ and do not take part in any events involving pink ribbons.
~Vanessa
