The G.O.O.D.S. Magazine Winter 2014 | Page 22

Did you become an advocate before or after your surgery? I do not consider myself a breast cancer advocate, however I do consider myself a healthcare advocate and encourage everyone to be diligent and proactive in their own health. We are ultimately responsible for our lives and early detection starts with us.  Did you or do you have any body image issues as a result or your double mastectomy and if so how do you cope? Removing my breast was me unselfishly choosing to be here for my family. In the beginning it was a challenge to look at my breast in the mirror or be naked around my husband but the reality is this procedure saved my life and I’m eternally thankful for that. I feel like I’m a beautiful person inside and with or without breasts, my outer beauty reflects what is on the inside so I rest confident in that. My husband also tells me how beautiful I am so that helps as well  How has this affected your faith? This experience has drawn me closer to God and I know with him and through him anything is possible. Has your diagnosis and survival influenced your career in a positive light? If so please explain how so. My diagnosis influenced my career in a positive light in a sense that it has given me a bigger voice and platform to share my testimony with others and show that despite certain circumstances, I overcame and am victorious. It also shows that no matter how much money you have, or how big your house is, or how nice your car is we are all human and n