My story begins about four years ago. I found a lump on my left breast and immediately decided I should see a physician to get it checked out. It took about two weeks for me to get my first appointment. When my doctor gave me an exam, she confirmed there was definitely a lump and said that we should schedule a mammogram. Amidst this was the first time my eyes were really opened to the possibility that I could have cancer. Of course, we’re all warned about cancer and know that it could happen, but you never truly think it could be you until you’re living it.
It took another week to get in for my mammogram. When I was there, the team couldn’t see the mass very well. I believe they said because it was high density it was more difficult to see, so the mammogram just left me with more questions than answers. After that, it was recommended that I schedule an ultrasound, and when the ultrasound produced similar results, I was scheduled for an MRI. The MRI was able to give my team a clearer picture of the mass and they were able to then schedule an MRI-guided biopsy.
As I was going through all of this, there were so many tears and scary moments. I truly felt so scared and alone, even though I was surrounded by people who loved and supported me. I know people who have passed away from breast cancer, I know warriors currently fighting, and I know people who have been lucky enough to beat it as well. My mass did not end up being cancerous and I am so grateful for that everyday, but my experience really shifted my perspective on going through a cancer scare.
Because of all this, I have partnered with organizations such as Treasure Your Chest to advocate for women everywhere. Early detection really does save lives. If you think something feels wrong or off, advocate for yourself and make sure your doctors are taking your concerns seriously.
Even though I was lucky enough to not be diagnosed with breast cancer, I still wanted to be there in any way I could for the strong women who are fighting this battle every single day. So I began sewing mastectomy pillows. My platform as Ms. United World 2024 is Empowering Women Through Fashion, and even though a pillow is not technically fashion, it is a way for me to use my sewing skills to promote a greater good and support women with breast cancer. The pillows are a great comfort for after surgery when women can tuck them under their arm to give themselves some additional support. Working on this project makes me feel so fulfilled and happy that I am able to provide even just a little bit of comfort for breast cancer warriors.
I try my best to use fashion to empower and help women, not just from my community, but across the country and the world. This past February, I hosted the Designed to Empower Fashion Show at New York Fashion Week which used ticket sales and fundraisers to gather donations for Treasure Your Chest and Katy, who is a sash sister of mine currently fighting breast cancer. It is the moments like these that I am talking about when I say that my fashion and skills help to empower women and help lift them up.
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