Finding Strength in the Eye of the Storm: Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Dear Reader,

"The most important thing in illness is never to lose heart."

—Nikolai Lenin

Breast cancer comes as a storm - unpredictable and overwhelming in nature. The sailors on this ship showcase pure strength and resilience. If cancer is a storm, I would call the survivors, the eye of the storm. Breast cancer warriors are often able to find peace and strength even in the midst of chaos and uncertainty. Over time, comes the realization of the importance of support and community, as well as the need to take things one day at a time.

Let’s start with the basics.

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the breast. It is the most common type of cancer among women, but it can also occur in men. Breast cancer is a disease in which cells in the breast grow out of control. There are different kinds of breast cancer. The kind of breast cancer depends on which cells in the breast turn into cancer.

There are several treatments for breast cancer. The type of treatment depends on the kind of breast cancer and how far it has spread. Treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, biological therapy, and radiation therapy.

What is a mastectomy?

A mastectomy is surgery to remove all or part of the breast. It is a common treatment for breast cancer, and it can also be used to prevent breast cancer in women who are at high risk of developing the disease.

Saaisha India

“Imagine the kind of pressure that forces a woman to undergo such pain after a traumatic surgery. So, I started making crocheted or knitted prostheses for these women”

-Jayshree Ratan

The number of mastectomy procedures has also increased. Every four minutes, a woman in India is diagnosed with breast cancer. Many women who go through this traumatic treatment, in which the entire breast tissue is removed, doubt their sense of self. While some women have access to silicone breast prostheses, the majority do not and must stuff handkerchiefs and cotton balls inside their bras to give the appearance of full breasts. This procedure frequently results in rashes, infections, and painful skin abrasions.

Jayashree Ratan, a Chennai native, began crafting crocheted prostheses for breast cancer survivors in order to assist such ladies. Since its inception in 2018, the Mumbai-based organization has given away over 5,700 free prostheses. It has a network of over 270 volunteers from India, the UAE, and the United States.

The more we learn about breast cancer, the better equipped we will be to detect it early and receive the necessary therapy. Discuss your risk factors for breast cancer with your doctor, and obtain frequent mammograms and breast exams. Breast cancer research is critical to the development of cutting-edge and improved treatments for this illness. Donate to breast cancer organizations or take part in fundraising activities. Breast cancer survivors may confront numerous physical and mental obstacles. Offer your friendship and support to breast cancer survivors in your life.

With heartfelt warmth,

UDGAM

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