What is a Cancer Survivor?

What determines whether a person has survived cancer? 

That was a serious question. Member and sponsors have often asked us how we define the term "cancer survivor." We define a survivor as anyone who has lived one second past the moment of diagnosis.

After you are diagnosed with cancer, every moment of your life can center around survival. That is why - every moment of life you experience post-diagnosis is a moment of life as a breast cancer survivor.

Each week, we like to feature of the story of a profound breast cancer survivor that we've either met or read about. This week, we read a touching story about a woman who has overcome -- survived beyond her diagnosis. She is the aunt of the popular St. Louis blogger, Danyelle Little (Code Name: The Cubicle Chick).

Here's an excerpt from Danyelle's blog where she shares more about her aunt's journey:

"Cancer is an illness that conquers many people, my Aunt included. Last year, on her birthday, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. This sentence is usually enough to debilitate and turn one’s life upside down, but for my Aunt, she decided she wasn’t going to let cancer invade her without a fight..."

One of the key characteristics of a breast cancer survivor is the ability to smile in the face of adversity. Danyelle's aunt has certainly exhibited the resiliency of her spirit to fight back against the condition that claims the lives of so many each day.

You can be just like her. You can make a commitment to live each day as a survivor and not allow your breast cancer diagnosis to break your spirits. In the words of gospel duo, Mary Mary, you cried your "last tear, YESTERDAY!"

Yesterday by Mary Mary

My Pink Purse Survivor Essentials is the 1st Monthly Subscription Service that provides gift boxes for cancer survivors and the people who cherish them. From pampering to awareness you will find something for everyone - no matter what stage in the journey. You will. find information and products you did not know and discover truths that empower you to feel strong and alive.

Be Careful with Your Cosmetics!

Not all cosmetic products are created equal. This is especially true for cancer survivors or women currently undergoing chemotherapy treatments. As a matter of fact, this is especially true for any woman who wants to PREVENT cancer (that's all of us, right?).

Carmen with Munaluchi Bridal recently discussed one specific chemical that can be cause for concern - Paraben, a cosmetic preservative. She mentioned all the variations of this product included in various cosmetic products - methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, etc. (I'm sure you get the gist - they all end with the word "paraben"). When you see that suffix on any cosmetic product, you may want to reconsider your purchase as this is a cancer-causing substance.

So...what products are safe to use? That's an excellent question. Ideally - you should focus on using all-natural products whenever possible. Focus on products that are less harsh on your skin and, if possible, commit to wearing as little makeup as possible. Remember - makeup was created to enhance your natural beauty, not change who you are.

My Pink Purse is the 1st Monthly Subscription Service specifically designed for Cancer Survivors and the people who cherish them. From pampering to awareness you will find something for everyone - no matter what stage in the journey. You will find information and products you did not know and discover truths that empower you to feel strong and alive!

National Cancer Prevention Month

Can you believe it's February already?!

February 1 marked the beginning of National Cancer Prevention Month. That's a bit of anomaly - since it seems that most forms of cancer are not only not easily detected in their early stages but also nearly impossible to prevent.

However, there are certain things you can do that could reduce the risk of cancer diagnosis - including changing your diet. Avoiding things like red meats, processed meats, etc. can reduce your risk for developing various forms of cancer. Replacing those meats with fresh vegetables will allow you to not only be healthy but also feel full.

What are you doing to get into the "healthy swing" this month?

My Pink Purse is a nonprofit organization charged with making strides against breast cancer.