Breast Cancer Diagnosis
I got the call on a Monday. On August 1, 2016, it was a beautiful, sunny morning. I was in a business meeting with my faithful Shiba Inu sleeping by my feet. The radiologist told me the results of my biopsy were positive and…. I couldn’t tell you what she said after that. Her voice drifted into the background of my head, similar to the voices of adults in classic Charlie Brown television specials: “Wa wa wa….”
Breast Cancer Survivor
As we enter October and Breast Cancer Awareness month, it’s impossible for me not to reflect on that day. It’s true what they say—that life literally changes in a second. It did for me. Given that one in eight women in this country will develop breast cancer at some point in her life, we all know someone who has had breast cancer. But you never expect to be one of the eight. I had unwillingly been initiated into an exclusive club of survivors. And to add insult to injury, at the time, I hated the color pink!
The good news is, I believe in the power of positive thinking. After going through a bilateral mastectomy followed by the months-long process of reconstructive surgery, I’m clean and healthy. Through the entire ordeal, I learned a lot about myself, what my real priorities are, who my true friends are, and what it means to be loved. My healthcare providers are no longer my doctors, but my heroes and my friends (yes you, Dr. Steven Silvers!).
Breast Cancer Awareness Products
This post is dedicated to all of my fellow, beautiful survivors. Each and every one of you have gone through your own personal battle. Whether that battle is long or short, my hope is that you came out on the other side feeling stronger and more empowered than before.
For those of you who want to do your part, below, I’ve shared 12 products to shop that support Breast Cancer Awareness month. If you’re searching for a way to make a contribution to help the strong women affected by breast cancer this October, scooping up a few of these charitable picks is a great place to start.
If you’d like to donate directly to an organization, here are a few of my recommendations:
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If you feel comfortable sharing your survival story, I thank you in advance for commenting below. You never know who you might inspire!
Look for my new posts coming THIS WEEK on redefining your style after breast cancer and some helpful tips on taking care of your skin.
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1
GHD Limited Edition Flat Iron
Marking its 17th year of supporting breast cancer charities worldwide, GDH will be donating $10 of every purchase from their limited-edition rose-pink collection to Keep A Breast Foundation, raising awareness of the importance of self-checking.
2
Sigma Beauty Pretty in Pink
This limited-edition set features a 9-shade eyeshadow palette, best-selling blending brush, and hydrating liquid lipstick, all in travel-friendly sizes. Through the month of October, 20% of proceeds from the sale of the Pretty in Pink set will go directly to The Pink Fund.
3
Bobbi Brown Powerful Pinks Gloss Duo
These limited-edition oil-infused glosses directly support Breast Cancer Awareness through Estée Lauder’s commitment to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
4
Estee Lauder Brave Beautiful Skin Care Set
Estee Lauder has been a long-time supporter of Breast Cancer Awareness Month with beautiful products, and this limited-edition self-care set is no different. 100% of the purchase price goes to supporting The Estée Lauder Companies Breast Cancer Campaign.
5
Donna Karan Cashmere Mist
This elegant scent features notes of Lily of the Valley, Moroccan Jasmine and Sandalwood. Donna Karan Cosmetics will donate 100% of the retail price from the sale of this product to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
6
The Better Skin Co Porefekter
100% of their October proceeds from the sale of this clean face serum will be donated to The Breasties, an organization dedicated to supporting those affected by breast and reproductive cancers through makeovers and cosmetic education.
7
Colleen Rothschild Breast Friend Self-Exam Butter
Effortlessly glide over skin during monthly breast self-examinations with this butter whipped with five exotic oils and botanical extracts. 100% of retail sales benefit The Pink Fund, an organization providing financial support to help meet basic needs.
8
Kendra Scott Metastatic Breast Cancer Necklace
Fifty percent of the proceeds from every purchase of this charm necklace will support the Legacy Retreat through Inheritance of Hope for families with a parent battling metastatic breast cancer.
9
Clinique Great Skin, Great Cause
The iconic moisturizer comes in a limited-edition pink bottle with a ribbon keychain. Clinique will donate $10 from the purchase price of Great Skin, Great Cause to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
10
Ralph Lauren Pink Pony Romance
With notes of Bergamot, Ginger Root and Mandarin, Ralph Lauren will donate 100% of purchases of this fragrance to the Pink Pony Fund throughout the month of October.
11
Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream
The limited edition, watercolor ombré design featured on this jar is pretty enough to be kept out on display on your vanity while supporting The Pink Agenda.
12
Coach Watch
Coach joins the fight with this elegant, rose-gold, stainless steel watch. It’s water-resistant and features a pink ribbon charm to help raise awareness.
I had a double mastectomy in 2014 followed by reconstructive surgery. It was a tough year but I am alive and well today and ever do grateful for my surgeons and oncologist. Be blessed everyone!
Thank you for sharing, Deonne. You are beautiful and a warrior! Wishing you continued health! XO, Amit
Dear Amit,
Thank you for sharing your personal story. You are beautiful and strong!!
I am only 1.5 years post-treatment (if you don’t count the 5 years of oral chemo) and October reminded me of the exact day I heard from my doctor about the diagnosis. I am right there with you….it was surreal. I feel so blessed to say that I am so grateful for each and every day, the slant in the gorgeous Autumn sun, my beautiful son and husband, all the joys that I have. You are not alone, and I am sending healing energy your way.
Hi Donna—you brought happy tears to my eyes! You are a beautiful warrior as well! You are so right about being grateful for each and every day, and all the little things that we no longer take for granted. Sending BIG virtual hugs! XO, Amit
I appreciate the idea behind this post and need for support and education surrounding breast cancer, but I’m curious about how much of the money from these products actually goes to foundations and patients. In October the whole world seems to be covered in pink, but oftentimes the companies seem to take advantage of women’s empathy and desire to help. I encourage Busbee Style and all of the readers to really do your research and see where these dollars are going. A few pennies make it to foundations and even fewer make it to metastatic/Stage 4 cancer research. Patients with Stage 4 cancer are the ones who die, yet metastatic cancers only get about 3% of the funds raised. Most people buy these products with the best of intentions, but in reality all they’re doing in buying something pink. Please do your research and see where your dollars are going. METavivor is a good place to start to donate and learn more about metastatic breast cancer.
Hi Leigh, I appreciate you leaving a comment and sharing this information, as it’s an important reminder to do your own research in these situations. This post was meant as a lighthearted way for readers to get involved and support the cause, but we’ll definitely add some links for direct donations into this post. Thanks for sharing!