From Breast Cancer Survivor to Advocate and Amoena Ambassador.

At 44 years old, I was diagnosed with Stage III invasive lobular breast cancer — words that instantly changed the course of my life. But my journey through medical adversity began long before cancer. 

As a child, I underwent two open-heart surgeries at eight months old, followed by a triple bypass surgery at four years old. Having spent much of my life fighting for my health, I entered my breast cancer journey with a deep understanding of both the strength and limitations of the human body. 

My treatment included chemotherapy, radiation, a complete lymph node dissection of my right dominant arm, a hysterectomy, and ultimately a mastectomy. Initially, reconstruction was part of my plan, as it is for many women. 

During this time, I was introduced to Amoena Canada through Pink Ribbon Boutique and its owner, Vanessa. In November 2024, Vanessa invited me to participate as a model during a certification seminar for mastectomy fitters and vendors with Amoena Canada — an experience that unexpectedly became a turning point in my journey. 

It was there that I first learned another option existed after mastectomy: a custom breast form. Until that moment, I was unaware such an option even existed. 

As I moved through treatment and recovery, I heard many stories from women who had undergone reconstruction — stories of additional surgeries, complications, setbacks, and prolonged healing. After everything my body had already endured throughout my life, I made the deeply personal decision not to pursue reconstruction. 

For me, it was not about giving something up — it was about reclaiming my life. 

I wanted to heal and move forward without putting my body through more surgeries and medical procedures. Choosing not to reconstruct became an empowering decision rooted in self-awareness, acceptance, and gratitude for all my body had already carried me through. 

When Amoena Canada approached me to become their Custom Breast Form Ambassador, it felt profoundly aligned with my purpose. I embraced the role wholeheartedly because I believe women deserve to know they have options. Reconstruction may be the right choice for some women, but it is not the only path to feeling whole, feminine, confident, or complete. 

My journey has also led me to become deeply involved with Breast Cancer Canada as an advocate and now as Volunteer and Engagement Coordinator. Today, I am passionate about supporting others navigating their own journeys while helping foster connection, awareness, and the importance of advancing breast cancer research. 

I share my story because I want other women to know there is no single “right” way to move forward after breast cancer. Every woman deserves the space to make the decision that feels best for her body, her health, and her future. 

Today, I stand not only as a breast cancer survivor, but as someone who has learned that healing is not always about returning to who you once were — sometimes it is about embracing who you have become.