Meet the Models
Carmen
Can you share with us your journey as a breast cancer survivor and how it has shaped your perspective on life and beauty?
It’s been a rollercoaster of emotions; some days on a high and others on a depressing low. This experience has taught me to embrace life fully with the good, the bad and the ugly, and to understand that beauty can come from fighting and being scarred (emotionally and physically). I’ve had to adapt the way I used to see myself to incorporate my body post-cancer, as I’m not sure if I’ll ever be able to go back to my “before”.
What motivated you to participate in this fashion show, and what message do you hope to convey to others through your participation?
It’s always been a dream of mine to model and only had to wait 50 years to make it true! I hope to show the world that perfection doesn’t exist, and we have to stop waiting for that perfect time and live life as it comes.
How has your experience with breast cancer influenced your relationship with fashion and self-expression?
I have always marched to the beat of my own drum and after cancer, I’m even more determined to be myself and dress to make myself happy.
What advice would you give to other breast cancer survivors who may be hesitant about embracing their “new normal”?
The “new normal” might not be perfect, but it will be YOUR normal!
In what ways do you hope your presence on the runway will inspire and empower other survivors to embrace their resilience and beauty in life after breast cancer?
We just went through one of the worst and most life-changing experiences known to human. Cancer alters the way you see and perceive the world and the way you see and perceive yourself. Take the moment to experiment with new styles and colors; you might be amazed at the new ways of expression you might find 😊
Claire
Can you share with us your journey as a breast cancer survivor and how it has shaped your perspective on life and beauty?
I was diagnosed with Stage 2 Triple Negative Breast Cancer in June 2022 after finding a small pea-sized lump. I was breastfeeding at the time and could have put it down to that but something didn’t feel right and I went and got it checked out and the biopsy revealed it was breast cancer which had spread to a local lymph node. I underwent 16 sessions of chemotherapy followed by a double mastectomy, 16 rounds of radiation, 9 more rounds of immunotherapy and a second reconstruction surgery. I completed my treatment in August 2023 and have had no evidence of disease since.
It is fair to say the last 2 years have been a complete rollercoaster but my family and friends and the amazing community of breast cancer survivors, warriors, thrivers and supporters (including the amazing BCF Cayman) have made the journey much more manageable. It’s a club nobody wants to be part of but you do meet some amazing people! The journey has made me reflect on the importance of appreciating the little things in life, letting go of things you can’t control and just trying to enjoy life and live in the moment. I have really focused on taking control of my health and wellbeing and am exercising regularly, eating healthier and have stopped drinking alcohol. My body has changed so much but I am so grateful for its strength as I went through several aggressive treatment regimes, and I am proud of my scars and my body.
What motivated you to participate in this fashion show, and what message do you hope to convey to others through your participation?
When I was asked to be part of the Beyond the Scar fashion show I wanted to support the amazing work that the BCF do in Cayman, and I also think it’s a really important message that breast cancer does not define me or anyone who has been affected by breast cancer. I also hope that anyone going through treatment or recovering and struggling with the changes to their body will take strength from seeing this amazing group of thrivers and warriors walking down the catwalk.
How has your experience with breast cancer influenced your relationship with fashion and self-expression?
My body has been through a lot of changes, and I definitely went through a period of wearing sweatpants and t-shirts, but I have embraced my new body; I think exercise has helped me feel more confident, and I am loving finding my new style.
What advice would you give to other breast cancer survivors who may be hesitant about embracing their “new normal”?
First of all, I would say that everybody is different, my story is not your story – everyone will have different feelings about the changes to their body, about the fact that your body may have ‘failed’ you (I definitely felt that way and it’s hard to learn to trust it again when aches or pains spark fears of a recurrence) and it’s all OK. Allow yourself to feel all the feelings but remember at the end of the day you are still you and all you can do is take care of your body, exercise regularly, make healthy choices and don’t put pressure on yourself.
In what ways do you hope your presence on the runway will inspire and empower other survivors to embrace their resilience and beauty in life after breast cancer?
I hope that if you are recently diagnosed, going through treatment or have completed treatment you will see this group of ladies on the stage and realise that breast cancer does not define you, that you are strong and that you are here today and that is a gift.
Criselda
Can you share with us your journey as a breast cancer survivor and how it has shaped your perspective on life and beauty?
My journey as a breast cancer survivor began in 2017, a time when I faced the daunting reality of my diagnosis. Initially, thoughts of mortality loomed large, and I grappled with the fear of burdening my loved ones with my struggles. However, through introspection and prayer, I found solace in the knowledge that my strength and courage were gifts from a higher power. It was a revelation that hiding my battle from my family was not an act of protection but rather a disservice to the love and support they yearned to provide. In embracing this truth, I discovered a newfound determination to fight not only for my life but also for the precious bond I share with my family. This journey has reshaped my perspective on life and beauty, instilling in me a profound appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of love and unity.
What motivated you to participate in this fashion show, and what message do you hope to convey to others through your participation?
I chose to participate in this meaningful fashion show not only to conquer my personal challenges of timidity and shyness but also to stand in solidarity with courageous breast cancer patients. By actively raising funds, I aspire to lessen their financial hardships and provide them with the support they deserve during their journey. My participation is more than just a walk down the runway; it embodies a message of empowerment, resilience, and unity within our community. Together, we can inspire others to embrace their inner strength and create positive change for those in need.
How has your experience with breast cancer influenced your relationship with fashion and self-expression?
In the face of adversity, my journey with breast cancer has been a transformative experience that profoundly shaped my relationship with fashion and self-expression. It taught me that true beauty emanates from within, radiating strength, resilience, and authenticity. Embracing my scars and newfound body image, I discovered the power of fashion as a tool for self-empowerment and self-expression. Each outfit became a canvas, showcasing my courage and individuality, reminding me that style is not just about trends but a reflection of one’s inner spirit. Through this journey, I’ve learned to celebrate every curve, every imperfection, as a testament to my strength and beauty, redefining standards and embracing a newfound confidence that transcends physical appearances.”
What advice would you give to other breast cancer survivors who may be hesitant about embracing their “new normal”?
To my fellow breast cancer survivors embarking on this transformative journey, I offer this advice: Embrace your new normal with courage, grace, and unyielding self-love. Understand that your scars and changes are badges of honor, symbols of your strength and resilience. Surround yourself with a supportive community that uplifts and empowers you, reminding you of your beauty and worth beyond physical appearances. Take each day as an opportunity to rediscover yourself, explore new styles, and express your unique identity. Remember, your journey is a testament to your incredible spirit, and by embracing your new normal, you inspire others to do the same.
In what ways do you hope your presence on the runway will inspire and empower other survivors to embrace their resilience and beauty in life after breast cancer?
On the runway, I aspire to be more than just a model; I am a symbol of resilience, courage, and beauty beyond boundaries. My presence serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring other survivors to embrace their unique journeys with strength and grace. By confidently showcasing my scars and celebrating my newfound body image, I redefine traditional beauty standards, emphasizing that true beauty stems from inner strength and self-acceptance. Through my journey, I hope to ignite a flame of empowerment within fellow survivors, encouraging them to embrace their stories, flaunt their uniqueness, and walk with unwavering confidence into a life filled with limitless possibilities.
Ella
Can you share with us your journey as a breast cancer survivor and how it shaped your perspective on life and beauty?
I was diagnosed with HER2+ Metastatic breast cancer in December 2021. This came as a complete shock to me as I did my annual check-ups and regular mammograms and was in otherwise very good health. I live a healthy lifestyle, eat a healthy diet, regularly exercise, non-smoker and consume no alcohol.
I decided to go to MD Anderson Hospital in Texas and started my chemotherapy treatment there in January 2022. I had 8 rounds of chemotherapy altogether along with targeted treatments. I did 5 rounds of chemotherapy at MD Anderson and came back home to Health City Cayman to complete my remaining treatments.
With being diagnosed with Metastatic breast cancer I had no surgeries but I have to continue my targeted treatments every three weeks by infusion indefinitely at Health City Cayman along with hormone medication daily. I go to MD Anderson Texas every 4 months for my checkups, scans and MRI’s and while I’m there I do my targeted treatments.
My tumors were undetected during my check-ups in February 2023 praise God, but I still remain on my targeted treatments every three weeks and hormone medication in order to keep the tumors undetected.
Breast cancer has made me realize that I’m much stronger than I thought I was and that you should enjoy life to the fullest one day at a time, slow down and count your blessings each day.
It has made me appreciate my body, beauty, hair and health even more. Being a woman, losing all of my hair was one of the hardest things for me but I have come to accept that I can live without hair and now, with much shorter hair, and still be a beautiful woman.
What motivated you to participate in the fashion show and what message do you hope to convey to others through your participation?
I was motivated by one of my therapists to enter the fashion show. I hope to convey to others through my participation that no matter what life throws at you, you never give up and that you’re still beautiful, strong, a thriver and a survivor of cancer by God’s help.
How has your experience with breast cancer influenced your relationship with fashion and self-expression?
When I first experienced my hair loss I was devastated but then I knew that I had to embrace fashion by wearing fashionable hair attire. There are so many nice hair accessories to choose from like wigs, caps, scarfs and extensions to help you look fashionable and embrace your beauty.
What advice would you give to other breast cancer survivors who may be hesitant about embracing the new normal?
Some advice that I would give to other breast cancer survivors is foremost Never give up, stay positive and fight for your life. I know life with breast cancer will have its ups and downs. Some days will be better than others but survivors will always have a unique perspective on life to draw from. All the feelings and concerns come with survivorship are completely normal. Everyone will handle survivorship differently, so survivors should not compare themselves to others. By praying, a little patience, healthy diets, regular exercise and support from family and friends and doing your regular checkups/treatments, you can gradually find a new normal.
In what ways do you hope your presence on the runway will inspire and empower other survivors to embrace their resilience and beauty in life after breast cancer?
Being on the runway can inspire and empower other survivors because it shows you that life doesn’t stop because you’re diagnosed with cancer. You have to remind yourself that you’re still a beautiful person. By embracing self-care, seeking support, setting goals, practicing gratitude, giving back, engaging in creative outlets, focusing on your health, pursuing hobbies, finding inspiration, staying connected with loved ones and most of all giving God thanks each and every day.
Remember each step you take towards a more purposeful life is a testament to your strength and resilience as a cancer survivor. Let hope and faith in God guide you forward on this journey.
Jax
Can you share with us your journey as a breast cancer survivor and how it has shaped your perspective on life and beauty?
I have been very fortunate to have been diagnosed early, been through my treatment, a double mastectomy and to have beaten cancer. Breast cancer has given me a huge amount of perspective. There’s no point being hung up imperfections that we may have. Rather we must be positive about who we are. No matter what.
What motivated you to participate in this fashion show, and what message do you hope to convey to others through your participation?
The fashion show is not something I would have naturally done. But my breast cancer experience has taught me that life IS opportunity. And so when I was asked to be involved, I felt that it’s an opportunity I should not pass up. I feel really honored to be asked to participate.
How has your experience with breast cancer influenced your relationship with fashion and self-expression?
Breast cancer hasn’t influenced me with fashion all that much. But what I will say is that when my hair fell out, I was really upset, but I accepted that this was just part of what I needed to go through to try and beat cancer. I went bald throughout my treatment, and I felt empowered by it.
What advice would you give to other breast cancer survivors who may be hesitant about embracing their “new normal”?
Be proud to be you. You’ve got through breast cancer, you’re strong, and you don’t need to fear anything. Be proud of who you are.
In what ways do you hope your presence on the runway will inspire and empower other survivors to embrace their resilience and beauty in life after breast cancer?
I hope that my presence on the runway shows that not matter what the effects of your treatment may be, that you can still be confident about who you are. Remember that you are not alone in this journey. There are so many wonderful women who I have met so far and we are a family there to support each other. So don’t be scared to reach out and ask for help if you need it.
Jesally
Can you share with us your journey as a breast cancer survivor and how it has shaped your perspective on life and beauty?
The battle was initially a roller coaster ride, as cliche as that may sound. The falls were the physical pain, emotional difficulties and mental struggles which almost made me want to just jump off to escape. But the highs were the immensity of support that I received from my family, friends, bosses and co-workers, my medical team, support group, and even the random people that I meet every day. Each of them gave me a ray of sunlight. They were my daily dose of medicine that made me stronger each day. I realized how I may have taken for granted the many things that I should have given more importance to such as my relationships not only with others but with the Lord as well, my health and personal well-being. My experience also taught me to understand and appreciate real beauty – and that is going beyond what the eyes can see. Beauty is faith despite the doubts, strength in times of trials and kindness despite the burdens.
What motivated you to participate in this fashion show, and what message do you hope to convey to others through your participation?
The aim of this fashion show is a huge motivation in itself and it is an honour to share the same goal. I hope that my participation will inspire courage to my fellow warriors.
How has your experience with breast cancer influenced your relationship with fashion and self-expression?
Self-love is not selfishness, and enjoying the freedom of self-expression is one way of giving love to oneself. Pre-cancer, I have always made a conscious effort to look “nice.” I watched my figure, followed daily regimens to maintain long straight hair, fair skin and all. But my experience changed by perspective as the effects of my treatments made me look different from what I thought was ideal. It took a while, but I have eventually learned to embrace the “nicer” me 🙂
What advice would you give to other breast cancer survivors who may be hesitant about embracing their “new normal”?
You are stronger than you think you are, you are a fighter, and you are doing great! Embrace your “new normal.” Take your time. It’s okay. I may not be a survivor just yet, but I am claiming it!
In what ways do you hope your presence on the runway will inspire and empower other survivors to embrace their resilience and beauty in life after breast cancer?
I learned about this Japanese word “kintsugi” which means “golden repair.” It’s the art technique of repairing a broken pottery by mending the pieces with gold creating a more exquisite version of the piece. My battle is still on, but I’d like to believe that I am already a survivor. My experience has taught me that wounds, no matter how painful, eventually heals and that adversity can turn into something beautiful.
Lucia
Can you share with us your journey as a breast cancer survivor and how it has shaped your perspective on life and beauty?
Life is something we often take for granted in one way or another. Now, I dress in a way that makes me feel comfortable and free. Undergoing a single mastectomy was a tough experience, but it opened my eyes to the importance of being bold and embracing change. I’ve traded black for vibrant colors like yellow, pink, blue, and white because life is too short to dress the same and be boring.
What motivated you to participate in this fashion show, and what message do you hope to convey to others through your participation?
My journey has been intensely personal, but I’m open to sharing my experiences with others. Breast cancer completely transformed my life, and I want to be part of something special by sharing my humble experience. I want other survivors to know that there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel, even when it seems dim.
How has your experience with breast cancer influenced your relationship with fashion and self-expression?
Fashion sense was never a big part of my life, so adapting and trying new outfits that match my mood and feelings has been easy. As a hippie at heart, anything different and unique makes me feel free and happy.
What advice would you give to other breast cancer survivors who may be hesitant about embracing their “new normal”?
I encourage others to go for it and forget about the judgments of others. We are all special and part of a greater plan.
In what ways do you hope your presence on the runway will inspire and empower other survivors to embrace their resilience and beauty in life after breast cancer?
Before my diagnosis, I was living life, but now I’m truly enjoying it. I hope that the scars left behind are seen as symbols of resilience and beauty. We are more than cancer; we are still beautiful and desired. We experience the same emotions as everyone else, but we understand resilience, happiness, and fear on a deeper level. I don’t seek pity; I seek awareness and understanding.
Norma
Can you share with us your journey as a breast cancer survivor and how it has shaped your perspective on life and beauty?
My journey as a breast cancer survivor has given me a better perspective on what matters and what doesn’t matter in my life.
Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. You know you are beautiful inside and out, so hold on to your confidence and hold your head high.
What motivated you to participate in this fashion show, and what message do you hope to convey to others through your participation?
I am motivated to participate in this fashion show to show the world there is life after cancer diagnosis and treatment. I am a survivor.
How has your experience with breast cancer influenced your relationship with fashion and self-expression?
I was fortunate not to have any visible changes to my body from cancer. However, being a cancer survivor has brought me an even stronger sense of confidence in myself and so, I continue to express my fashion sense in a way that is comfortable and reflective of me.
What advice would you give to other breast cancer survivors who may be hesitant about embracing their “new normal”?
My sisters, love yourself first. Stick with people who are positive-minded. And remember a diagnosis is not a death sentence.
In what ways do you hope your presence on the runway will inspire and empower other survivors to embrace their resilience and beauty in life after breast cancer?
I hope my presence on stage will be an eye-opener to others to show that one can live a normal life, even after breast cancer.
I still have my confidence, the will to live and consider myself a strong woman and so can you.
I AM A SURVIVOR.
Sharon
Can you share with us your journey as a breast cancer survivor and how it has shaped your perspective on life and beauty?
My journey has been one of mountain top and valleys. When I was first diagnosed, I didn’t know what to do or say. It felt like I was put into a barrel on top of a mountain and let it go rolling down into nowhere. It took me a while to realize where I was and what I needed to do. I knew I had to get out and fast, my family needed me and most of all I needed them. I could not go through this on my own. So I prayed, God please give me strength. Surrounding yourself with positive and faith-believing persons helped me get through.
My perspective on life now is so different, I am more appreciative of the little things, of my family and friends and self-care. I have always known that beauty is not only found on the outside but this journey has taught me differently. I have really learnt that beauty is within and it radiates on the outside.
Now I live my life with intention and purpose.
What motivates you to participate in this fashion show and what message do you hope to convey to others through your participation?
My fears motivate me, I have always been fearful, but I think that being through and still going through this journey has somehow strengthened my resolve, participating in this fashion show is a true test for me. I am sure if my family or friends were to tell the truth, they would say “I didn’t believe she was serious. “
I hope that by me taking part in this fashion show, it will encourage other survivors, thrivers and warriors to walk with their heads held high knowing they are strong, tenacious and beautiful inside and out.
“Strength lies not in the absence of fear, but in the courage to face it head-on.”
How has your experience with breast cancer influenced your relationship with fashion and self-expression?
I can honestly say I do not think breast cancer has influenced my relationship with fashion and self-expression in any drastic way. I continue to dress as I usually do with the exception of my prosthesis bras which is due to my double mastectomy. There are times when I don’t feel like wearing them, so, I go without. I have always been a person to experiment with different types of hairstyles and colors. I am confident in my new skin so to speak to keep being myself and doing what I have always done.
What advice would you give to other breast cancer survivors who may be hesitant about embracing their new normal?
First and foremost, put your life into God’s hands and trust Him completely. Then I would say, you have been given a second chance to do things differently, to see yourself in a new light that you would not normally do.
I have learned to stop and smell the roses, like really smell it, whatever that rose is for you, find time to stop and smell it. This new normal has repositioned me, in so many ways. To pray more, love more and laugh more.
In what way do you hope your presence on the runway will inspire and empower other survivors to embrace their resilience and beauty in life after breast cancer?
I hope it will give them confidence and resilience to step out with the reassurance that it doesn’t matter if you lost one or two breasts or even a piece of one, you are still a woman and a beautiful one.
Breast cancer does not break you it makes you. I found the below quote which I think is fitting to close with.
“Strength doesn’t come from what you can do, but from overcoming what you once thought impossible.”
“Your journey may be tough, but remember, you are tougher.”
Tara
Can you share with us your journey as a breast cancer survivor and how it has shaped your perspective on life and beauty?
It was during my annual screening that I was diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2022 (DCIS (stage 0) left breast). What should have been a simple lumpectomy, and potentially radiation treatment, didn’t quite pan out. My surgeon wanted me to see an oncologist prior to doing the lumpectomy and ensure that that was the best way forward given the history of various types of cancer in my family. Well, while I am thankful for the referral, I can honestly say I did not expect what would come out of it.
I saw the oncologist, and upon examination, he felt something on my right breast (keeping in mind the mammogram and ultrasound did not show anything on the right). Off for an MRI, I went. Lo and behold, 6 weeks after the initial DCIS diagnosis, the MRI showed a mass on the right breast (2.9cm). What happens next…well a biopsy of course. Results confirmed that the mass was stage 2 apocrine breast cancer. Yes, apocrine, a rare form of breast cancer. Can’t say I was too surprised at the fact that it was a rare form, as I don’t do things sub-par, it had to be over and above.
Discussions now moved from lumpectomy and radiation to bilateral mastectomy, potential reconstruction, and the various treatments afterwards. These are conversations I did not expect to be having; it’s a lot of information to take in and so many variables to consider. Everyone deals with these types of health issues differently, so I took the information and digested it. No tears, no pity party, just the mindset of ‘right, what’s the next step’.
Prior to having a bilateral mastectomy in February 2023, my oncologist suggested I try a prostate cancer drug as it was shown in some studies that taking this particular type of drug for apocrine breast cancer either helped to curb the growth of the tumour or shrink it. I took this drug for over 2 months. Side effects were not bad, the worst being fatigue and nausea.
After my bilateral mastectomy in February 2023, we awaited the results from pathology that would determine the next steps (ie type and length of chemo, radiation etc). Three weeks later we had the pathology report. The results could not have been better; the drug I was on worked! The apocrine tumour had shrunk to a point where it was basically gone. Needless to say, happy dances were happening. Chemo, radiation and any long-term medication were now off the table. I could move on.
Reconstruction…what to say about reconstruction. Well, it is a personal choice and everyone is different. After looking into it, researching it, and sitting down with a plastic surgeon to discuss it, I decided it was not for me.
The thought of multiple surgeries, and knowing implants would have to be removed or replaced in the future did not appeal to me. The potential of my body rejecting the implants or developing breast implant illness isn’t something I want to tempt fate with. I opted to go flat because I want to be healthy and move on from breast cancer.
I will leave this lifetime the same way I came into it – flat. The decision is one which I am very happy with, I am my new ‘normal’, and I am no less a person, woman or human because of my choice.
Throughout my whole experience, I could not be more thankful for the support of my husband, family and friends; the support and care from my doctors and surgeons.
I am so very thankful for the Breast Cancer Foundation here in Cayman, for their support, kindness, and ongoing assistance. What the BCF does for patients is second to none.
Life has a funny way of keeping you on your toes. So many ups and downs, good times and bad, and yet we manage to keep on, well, keeping on. The human spirit is so strong, and yet we forget this in times of despair and heartache. No one is perfect, no life is absolutely perfect, we are all imperfect; but we are amazing.
What motivated you to participate in this fashion show, and what message do you hope to convey to others through your participation?
Motivation to Participate: To show that even flat is feminine.
How has your experience with breast cancer influenced your relationship with fashion and self-expression?
Self expression has not changed. Wearing certain clothes has changed so far as deep vee neck styles I’m not wearing any longer as they don’t appear pleasant to me without boobs, and that’s fine by me. Love not wearing a bra!
What advice would you give to other breast cancer survivors who may be hesitant about embracing their “new normal”?
Embrace who you are and your new “normal”. You are no less a person than you were before your diagnosis, just stronger.
In what ways do you hope your presence on the runway will inspire and empower other survivors to embrace their resilience and beauty in life after breast cancer?
I hope to inspire anyone going through breast cancer and double mastectomy, that foregoing reconstruction does not make you less of a woman, and certainly does not make you any less feminine. Breasts have become so sexualized and society associates them with femininity, when in fact it is the person herself that exudes femininity.
All body types are beautiful.
