Gloria Chinyere Okwu: My highest suffering and biggest challenge

Gloria Chinyere Okwu, Program Coordinator/Head of Programs, Project PINK BLUE, shared a post on LinkedIn:

“13th October is always an emotional day for me. I get to stare at my scars and acknowledge what they actually mean; again. These six ugly scars symbolize my highest suffering and biggest challenge. They remind me of the 4 surgeries I have undergone in 7 years, on the same chest wall and the heartaches of being labeled malignant all 4 times.

I have commemorated pink october this way for three years to encourage survivors to embrace their scars, boldly share their stories and to tell the world to end the stigma and offer real support to people battling cancer.

These scars confirm my undaunted resilience! My tenacity and outrageous COURAGE. I have shown strength, character and gracefulness that can only be given by God and the support of good people.

Today, I show my scars to remind us of the reality of breast cancer and the reality of the suffering it brings. I want to show tangible proof of the pain, trauma and unnerving daily anxiety of surviving cancer.

Dear Survivors, I want to show that there’s life after this life altering disease and it’s meant to be lived and enjoyed. In that life one can still find purpose and fulfillment. In this darkness; we must find the light and harness the opportunities.

Dear reader, as you face your own peculiar challenges, do so with a squared shoulder; however it turns; that’s the only true power you have.

To look at a damning situation and decide exactly how you want to feel and act about it, despite the limitations, is the world’s greatest super power.

Find strength in yourself!

Check your breasts today.”