LIFE THROUGH THE PINK LENS
Reflections, resources, and support for navigating breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and healing
My Journey So Far
The word “cancer” arrived quietly, yet it shattered everything familiar. Suddenly, my body felt foreign, fragile, and urgent; a vessel both vulnerable and strangely resilient.
From the first biopsy to the surgery, every appointment was a lesson in patience, anxiety, and unexpected courage. There were moments of fear so sharp they took my breath away, and moments of quiet reflection where I discovered reserves of strength I hadn’t known I possessed.
The journey continues. Radiotherapy and hormone therapy (possibly chemotherapy) lie ahead —necessary steps I will walk with intention, awareness, and heart.
This experience has reshaped my understanding of care, courage, and connection. Each day reminds me that healing is not linear, that grief and gratitude can coexist, and that sharing my story might illuminate the path for someone else walking a similar journey.
Early Detection and Awareness
Early detection can make a significant difference in outcomes, which is why knowing the signs and symptoms of breast cancer is so important. Regular self-checks and awareness of changes in your body help you act promptly if something feels unusual. For clear guidance on what to look out for, including common signs and symptoms, visit Breast Cancer Now’s dedicated page. Empowering yourself with knowledge is one of the most important steps you can take in your breast cancer journey.
Tips for Moving Through Your Breast Cancer Journey
Avoid comparison – everyone’s journey is unique, influenced by stage, grade, treatment plan, genetics, and personal circumstances.
Instead, focus on your path: honour your body’s signals, respect your emotional needs, and make decisions based on what feels right for you, not someone else’s timeline.Avoid reading too many stories online – constant exposure can be overwhelming, re-traumatising, or increase anxiety.
Instead, choose one or two trusted sources or personal stories that provide realistic hope, inspiration, or actionable guidance, and give yourself permission to step away when needed.Avoid ignoring your emotions – sadness, fear, anger, and uncertainty are all normal responses. Bottling them up can make the journey heavier.
Instead, journal, talk with a trusted friend, coach, or therapist, or use creative outlets like art or movement to process feelings without judgment or pressure to “be okay.”Avoid isolating yourself – withdrawing can intensify grief, stress, and feelings of loneliness.
Instead, reach out for support from family, friends, peer groups, or communities. Connection—even small gestures—reminds you that you are not alone.Avoid overloading yourself with medical information – endless research can be confusing, frightening, or lead to “analysis paralysis.”
Instead, ask your healthcare team targeted questions, take notes, and prioritise the information you truly need. Break down complex guidance into small, manageable steps.Avoid neglecting self-care – treatment and emotional stress can make it easy to forget your own needs.
Instead, schedule small daily acts of care: a short walk, nourishing meals, gentle movement, mindful breathing, or quiet reflection. Consistent care helps maintain resilience and grounding.Avoid perfectionism in coping – you are not expected to “stay positive” all the time or handle everything flawlessly.
Instead, give yourself permission to feel, rest, and ask for help, while celebrating small wins and moments of resilience, recognising courage in both action and pause.Avoid suppressing intimacy or connection – breast cancer can affect relationships, body image, and sexuality, leaving you feeling disconnected.
Instead, communicate openly with loved ones, explore ways to maintain closeness safely, and consider professional guidance if needed. Honour your needs for touch, emotional intimacy, and support without pressure or shame.
“The audacity of grass to keep growing after it has been cut down a thousand times.”
– Dr Jaiya John, We Birth Freedom at Dawn
Grief, Trauma and Breast Cancer – Blog Post
In the coming weeks, I’ll be sharing a new blog post exploring the intersection of grief, trauma, and breast cancer. It will include reflective questions at the end of each section, giving you space to process and reflect on your own journey. The post will cover how breast cancer affects us on multiple levels—nervous system, body, mind, spirit, and emotions—while also offering practical guidance on ways to care for yourself. My hope is that it provides both insight and gentle support for anyone navigating this experience. Keep an eye out for it, and allow yourself the time and space to engage with it fully—or subscribe to my monthly Muse-letter to be notified when it’s published.
30 Days Through Breast Cancer: Reflective Journal – Free Downloadable PDF
To support you through this journey, I’ve created the ‘30 Days Through Breast Cancer’ reflective journal: a gentle, guided companion designed to help you process your emotions, track your healing, and find moments of clarity each day. It includes my own 30 days of voice note journaling, offering an intimate and personal perspective alongside the prompts and exercises. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, in treatment, or navigating recovery, this journal can be a comforting guide. The download will be available in the second half of September, but you can sign up now to receive your copy as soon as it’s ready: Download here.
Group Coaching programme: She Who Still Blooms
She Who Still Blooms is a group coaching programme designed to provide support, reflection, and empowerment for those navigating breast cancer. While it centres the experiences of Black women and women of colour—who are often underrepresented and underserved in culturally competent spaces—the programme is open to all. Through guided discussions, reflective exercises, and a supportive community, participants can explore their journey with care, connection, and clarity. Sign up to be notified when the programme launches in 2026.
“I walk into the fires always and come out more alive.” – Anaïs Nin
Links to Additional Resources and Support
NHS Breast Cancer Resources – Provides reliable, up-to-date information on signs, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and recovery. Ideal for guidance straight from the UK health system. Visit NHS
Breast Cancer Now – UK charity offering information, support, and research updates. Their resources include guides, helplines, and local support services. Visit Breast Cancer Now
Becca App – Breast Cancer Support – A mobile app designed to support patients through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery with personalised guidance and community support. Visit Becca App
Cancer Research UK – The UK’s leading cancer charity, providing up-to-date information on all types of cancer, including research developments, prevention tips, treatment options, and support for patients and families. Their resources help you make informed decisions and stay connected to the latest breakthroughs. Visit Cancer Research UK
Macmillan Cancer Support – Provides practical, emotional, and financial support for people living with cancer and their families. Offers helplines, guides, and local support groups. Visit Macmillan
Breast Cancer UK – Focused on awareness, education, and early detection, with resources for patients, carers, and the wider public. Visit Breast Cancer UK
Black Women Rising UK – Supports Black women affected by breast cancer, addressing unique cultural, emotional, and systemic challenges. Visit Black Women Rising UK
Coppafeel – Raises awareness of breast health and encourages self-checking through approachable campaigns, tools, and guidance. Visit Coppafeel
BreastCancer.org – Offers comprehensive, evidence-based information on breast cancer types, treatment, coping strategies, and support communities. Visit BreastCancer.org
Maggie’s Centres – Provides free, in-person and online emotional, practical, and social support for people affected by cancer and their families, including workshops and one-to-one support. Visit Maggie’s
Get In Touch
For questions about the resources, your access to the journal, or the coaching programme, you can reach me at: breastcancer@rbccmnq.com. Please note that I am not able to respond to personal stories or experiences, as this helps me manage my time and energy while continuing to provide support through my offerings.