For many women who face a diagnosis of breast cancer, the word “warrior” becomes a rallying cry—a call to gather up the fortitude to face the challenge head-on. And for many, that challenge becomes a journey toward recovery and wellness. But for some, the warrior narrative doesn’t resonate or feel reflective of their experience.
“Warrior” is often a buzzword in the breast cancer community that has become synonymous with “fighter.” While that phrase may serve as a motivational tool for some, it can also be a painful and triggering label to hear. For some, it can evoke memories of the times when their strength was tested during the toughest moments of their battle against breast cancer.
It’s a place where women who have received a breast cancer diagnosis and their families gather together to be able to talk about their emotions and experiences with one another and support each other on this journey. It’s a place that is suffused with joy and tinged with sadness, because the simple truth is that for many of these women, they are being kicked in the butt by their disease.
And despite the fact that they’re fighting for their lives, they don’t want to be defined by their condition or viewed as victims. They’re women who are claiming their own power and redefining their definition of what it means to be a woman.
The group is facilitated by other survivors of breast cancer and meets the 3rd Thursday of each month at Pink Warrior House. During the meeting, members can talk about how they’re feeling and what’s going on in their life and share ideas and tips with other ladies who are dealing with the same thing they’re dealing with.
In addition to the monthly meetings, there are workshops Breast Cancer Warrior and events held at the facility throughout the year to help women with their specific needs. For example, there are workshops that focus on diet and exercise during and after treatment and others that focus on navigating relationships with men after a diagnosis of breast cancer. There is even a class where participants can learn to do yoga and guided relaxation sessions.
The organization is also a sponsor of Ford Warriors in Pink, an initiative that raises funds and awareness for breast cancer through the sale of inspirational apparel and gear. It’s a program that supports the efforts of the Smilow Cancer Hospital to provide patients with the essential nursing support services they need during their breast cancer journey. These costs are often not covered by insurance, which can be overwhelming for these women and their families. The organization raises money to offset those expenses. For more information about the group, please visit their website.