Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Real women, real stories

Oct 01, 2012 7:00 AM by SheKnows Parenting Editors

Posted in Parenting

Breast Cancer Doesn't Care If You're A Mom

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It's a time to spread awareness about breast cancer, a disease that will strike one out of every eight women. A disease that is the second leading cause of death in women. We collected the stories of women — who are also mothers — who have battled breast cancer. They are all brave and beautiful.

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Ellyn Davidson: Heal thyself by paying it forward

"After a bilateral mastectomy, the removal of 14 lymph nodes and six rounds of chemo, I was a freshly-minted breast cancer survivor," says Ellyn Davidson. "I was bald, grateful — and exhausted."

"Just as being a survivor is now an integral — and positive — part of my identity."

What was supposed to be a relaxing few days away from home with her family following her surgery instead became a turning point for Ellyn. Still going through a lot because of her breast cancer — she had a breast reconstruction and a hysterectomy/oophorectomy ahead of her — Ellyn became a mentor for other women with breast cancer.

"Just as being a survivor is now an integral — and positive — part of my identity, so, too is being a mentor, an advocate, a doer on behalf of women with breast cancer," Ellyn shares. "I look forward to wearing that role for a long, long time."

Read Ellyn's inspiring story of mentorship and healing herself by giving to others: Heal thyself by paying it forward.

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Tags: breast cancer breast cancer awareness

Comments

Comments on "Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Real women, real stories"

Yes, my daughter Pam was very brave. I think she was the strongest of us all. She always had a positive attitude We love her and are very happy for her.

Awww it's so good that Jennifer wants to give back, in spite of all she's been through. People like her are what make the world a better place. I'm sorry for all that she's been through, and you and your family are in my prayers.

I know Aunt Lois and she is the best! What an inspiration all these women are!!!

I had exactly the same as you except i had LCIS too which is the precursor to cancer. i had bilateral mastectomy a month ago and never ever looked back...no radiation no tamoxifen. harder bc of surgery but easier bc theres no more risk really.... and we can see our kids grow up ( Mine are older so in stead of kindergarten, i 'm talking about them getting married!) be well