Words of Encouragement
Click or tap on the topics that speak to you to see quotes from women living with mBC.
Sometimes it may feel like no one quite gets it. But you know who does understand what it’s like to live with mBC? Others living with it.
These inspiring messages from other women address some common topics-the good, the bad, the ugly.
If retiring is the best option for you, try not to beat yourself up about it. Remember, you are so much more than your job title. Focus on all the other important roles you play every day.
"I need to take care of myself first. I am entitled to time, and I am entitled to healing."
Intimacy is not just sex. Intimacy is about closeness, being together, trusting one another, and sharing your authentic selves.
"I realized we can cuddle and kiss, or watch our favorite movie together. I had to figure out what my definition looked like, so I could still feel connected to my partner."
Remember, it’s OK to be who you are and where you are.
"Life doesn’t end when you are diagnosed. I realized that was the time for me to dig in and do all of the things that are on my wish list, regardless of if people think it’s crazy."
-
So often we only see the brave faces of cancer. You know what? You’re not always going to feel brave, and that’s OK. It’s not required.
"It’s OK to melt. I don’t always have to be strong. I let people support me. I let them take care of me, and I take care of myself."
It’s normal to feel a flood of new emotions when you notice physical changes. Bring it up with your nurse or therapist. They can offer treatment options, support, or a new perspective.
"I have on a wig, but my hair is thinning. For a Black woman, her hair is her crown. I’m in a good place now, but dealing with that has been hard."
Give yourself time. Change comes with a period of adjustment, and loss comes with grief before acceptance. Remind yourself of all you’ve been through and pace yourself.
"When I initially got diagnosed, it took me some time to kind of gather myself. In conversations with my family members, I just told them that this isn’t the time for us to be scared. This is the time for us to do some research and find information."
No one knows what tomorrow holds. You have now—you have this moment in time. Live it to the fullest but don’t be afraid to talk about your fears about the future either.
"My therapist thought that I was overconcerned about death and dying. Honestly, I don’t think she was terribly comfortable with the topic, so I’m starting with a new therapist. Do your research. Talk to other people to get the support and information you need."
- Words of Encouragement Encourage Encourage
- Kind Reminders Affirm Affirm
- Communication Style Quiz Communicate Communicate
- Sound Escapes Relax Relax
