Prisca Githka, Cancer Advocate, Founder of Pink Hearts Cancer Support Foundation, shared a post by on LinkedIn:
“Chronicles of a Cancer Survivor: Defining Beauty in My Own Way
Cancer changed my body but not my worth, and it did not take away my identity.
As a survivor, I live with side effects many do not talk about such as loss of a breast, thinning hair, eyebrows that never fully grew back and hair that turned grey far earlier than expected. I have been offered many ‘solutions’: makeup, hair dye, even breast reconstruction.
I chose otherwise.
I wear my grey hair with pride. I embrace my natural look. I only remember I am lopsided when I am getting dressed and even then, it does not define me. My scars are not flaws; they are evidence of survival, healing and strength. I have chosen not to let society, beauty standards, or pressure even from well-meaning people define how I should look or feel. I am a natural beautiful African woman who has walked through cancer and emerged owning her truth.
Beauty to me, is authenticity.
Beauty is choice.
Beauty is survival.
I choose me.
I define beauty—by ME.
Advocacy call to action:
Let us champion survivor-centered care where autonomy, dignity and choice are respected. Survivors should never be pressured to ‘look normal’ to be accepted. Healing is personal and our healthcare systems, policies and communities must honor that.”
Other articles featuring Prisca Githuka on OncoDaily.