Embracing My New Self After Breast Cancer: Celebrating International Flat Day 

Hey there, lovely readers! It’s Amy here, and today I want to share something deeply personal and close to my heart. As many of you know, I’ve been on quite a journey lately, and I thought it was time to open up about it. Today’s blog post is all about celebrating International Flat Day and what it means to me as a breast cancer survivor.

Mixed Feelings and Moving Forward

When I reflect on my breast cancer treatment journey, it’s hard to put into words the whirlwind of emotions I’ve experienced. Losing a part of my body that symbolized my womanhood was not easy, to say the least. I know many of you can relate to the sadness, anger, and overall emotional turmoil that comes with such a significant change.

But, you see, there’s another side to this story. It’s the side that reminds me of our incredible tenacity as survivors. It’s the side that celebrates the battles we’ve fought and won. And that’s where International Flat Day comes in – as a reminder of our strength and a celebration of our newfound resilience.

The Power of Commemoration

This year, I didn’t post anything to commemorate International Flat Day, but I saw many amazing women who did. Their confidence and authenticity in embracing their new selves filled me with admiration and hope. It made me realize that this journey is about more than just physical changes – it’s about the courage to be ourselves, no matter what.

A Personal Journey

My own journey hasn’t been without its challenges. There are days when I look in the mirror and struggle with my reflection. But there are also days when I embrace my new body and all that it represents – survival, strength, and the beauty of resilience.  On those difficult days, it’s easy to get lost in negative thoughts and judgments about our bodies. We may focus on perceived flaws or compare ourselves to unrealistic standards of beauty. It’s important to remember that our bodies are not just objects to be scrutinized, but vessels that carry us through life. They tell stories of our experiences, our triumphs, and our ability to adapt and overcome.

When we look in the mirror and struggle with our reflection, it’s crucial to practice self-compassion and kindness. Instead of criticizing ourselves, we can remind ourselves of the journey that our bodies have been through. They have endured, healed, and survived.
Embracing our new bodies means acknowledging the strength and resilience they represent. It means recognizing the battles we’ve fought, whether they be physical or emotional. Every scar, stretch mark, or change in shape tells a story of our ability to overcome adversity.

Survival is a testament to our inner strength. Our bodies are not only a reflection of physical survival but also mental and emotional survival. They carry the weight of the challenges we’ve faced and carry on despite it all. They are a reminder that we are resilient, capable, and powerful. The beauty of resilience lies in our ability to bounce back, to adapt, and to grow stronger. Our bodies may have changed, but they are a testament to our ability to adapt to new circumstances. They remind us that we have the power to overcome obstacles and continue moving forward.

So, on those days when it’s difficult to embrace our reflection, let’s strive to see our bodies through a lens of gratitude and appreciation. Let’s honor the stories they tell and remember that they are a physical manifestation of our survival, strength, and the beauty of resilience. 

A Message of Empathy

To those of you who may be going through similar experiences, I want you to know that you’re not alone. It’s okay to have mixed feelings, and it’s okay to take your time to heal, both physically and emotionally. Your journey is uniquely yours, and you should embrace it in a way that feels right for you. Don’t let anyone rush you or make you feel like you should be over something quickly. Healing takes time, and it’s important to honor and respect your own process. Give yourself permission to feel all the emotions that come up, whether they are positive or negative.

Remember that healing is not a linear path. There might be days when you feel like you’re making progress, and other days when you feel like you’ve taken a step back. That’s completely normal. Be patient with yourself and trust that you are moving forward, even if it doesn’t always feel that way.

It’s also important to seek support during your healing journey. Whether it’s through therapy, talking to loved ones, or joining support groups, having a safe space to share your feelings can be incredibly helpful. Remember that you don’t have to go through this alone.
Lastly, take care of yourself both physically and emotionally. Engage in activities that bring you joy, practice self-care, and prioritize your well-being. Healing is a holistic process, and taking care of yourself in all aspects will contribute to your overall recovery. Trust your instincts and know that you have the strength within you to heal. Embrace your journey, however it unfolds, and be gentle with yourself along the way. 

In closing, I want to thank each and every one of you who has supported me on this journey. Your love and encouragement have meant the world to me. And to those who have posted about International Flat Day, thank you for being a source of inspiration.

As I continue to navigate this new chapter of my life, I hope to find the same confidence and self-love that I’ve seen in others. It’s a process, and I’m taking it one step at a time. Together, we can celebrate our tenacity, our strength, and our beautiful, unique selves.

Thank you for joining me on this journey of reflection and celebration. Until next time, take care, and remember that you are strong, beautiful, and resilient.

With love and gratitude, Amy