As we have covered in past blogs, young people account for about 10% of all cancer patients. As science, research and advocacy evolve, more young people are SURVIVING cancer and going on to lead healthy and productive lives. Nonetheless, young cancer survivors are in a league of their own when it comes to survivorship issues, (i.e., late-term effects of cancer treatment, fertility, heart & brain health, etc…). In an effort to address and celebrate breast cancer survivorship, particularly in women diagnosed at a young age, a new quarterly magazine was born: Survivors: A Magazine for Inspiration, Hope, Healing and More.
In November 2011, the premier issue of Survivors: A Magazine for inspiration, Hope, Healing and More was published. According to the editors, the goal of the magazine is to “highlight positive and inspiring breast cancer survivor stories – about people who have turned their diagnosis and situation into possibilities and opportunities.” The most significant aspect of this new magazine lies not only in its mission, but also in its content – the magazine spotlights grass roots programs and organizations allowing them to get the kind of exposure they often deserve and need, but don't often get.
Throughout the first issue are stories from women, many still in their reproductive years, who are involved with the Breast Cancer Awareness Body Painting Project (BCAPP). BCAPP is a form of art therapy for breast cancer survivor showcasing women of all different races and ethnicities with their chests/torso painted, aiming to demonstrate the beauty and inspiration in survivorship by presenting a positive body image of breast cancer survivors. If you have not already, you should definitely take a look at these profound and brave images of women who have been diagnosed with and survived, breast cancer. If you need a little inspiration, you will be hard pressed not to find it here.
Their first issue of Survivors: A Magazine for Inspiration, Hope, Healing and More can be downloaded for free so take a look at it here and if you love it, they’ve already released their second issue for purchase. If you're interested in contributing breast cancer survivor stories or other related content, please send them an email at: survivors@inkspotdesigns.com.
