Breast cancer is a type of cancer in which cancer cells form in the breast tissue. There are many different kinds of breast cancer, but invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) is the most common, accounting for 80% of all breast cancer diagnoses.
When breast cancer is caught early and in the localized stage, the survival rate is 99%. Early detection methods include monthly self-exams and regular mammograms.
Breast cancer can be diagnosed through various tests, including mammograms, ultrasounds, MRIs, and biopsy.
In a midwestern town, thousands of people who lived and worked near the medical medical device sterilization company Sterigenics experienced daily exposure to cancer-causing rates of ethylene oxide. Years later, the community is finally seeking justice.
Breast cancer is killing Black women at alarmingly higher rates than their white counterparts. Ricki Fairley’s breast cancer diagnosis set her on a path to demanding better for Black women.
Marbled walls, glowing white shelves and splashes of pink throughout make Livia Boutique a picture of modern elegance. Featuring products uniquely tailored to the cancer experience, this safe space in the heart of New York City offers breast cancer warriors and thrivers a way to connect, relax and support each other throughout their journeys.
Roots & Wings Foundation raises awareness about metastatic breast cancer (MBC), connecting those diagnosed with integrative therapies to help them live longer, healthier lives.
From working out of her New York City apartment to opening two brick-and-mortar lash spas in sunny LA, celebrity lash expert Dionne Phillips is now using her platform to share her experience with breast cancer to inform and empower others.
In March’s A Common Thread column, Melissa Berry chats with Lori Goldstein, founder of LOGO by Lori Goldstein, about her clothing line and the amazing work she does for breast cancer.
Erica Langley’s breast cancer diagnosis came just weeks before her first bodybuilding competition. With no family history of cancer and a sparkling record of clean living, she was blindsided by her diagnosis. But she would soon find her physical and mental strength — honed during rigorous training — would be an asset during treatment and help her come back stronger than ever.
After Virginia Carnesale’s breast cancer diagnosis, she was surprised by how little information was available for health and beauty products that could help warriors and thrivers through treatment. Resolving to do something about it, she founded Stage — an online platform celebrating its one-year anniversary this month.
Actress Miranda McKeon uses her social media platform to encourage open and honest discussions about the mental and physical aspects of cancer, breaking stigmas about breast cancer and demystifying a diagnosis to her loyal followers, which number more than a million.
‘Tis the season for gifting, but Melissa Berry’s latest column shares breast cancer thrivers’ favorite gifts for any time of the year.
MyUzima Health & Wellness works to improve health outcomes for Black communities.
Sara Machnik was diagnosed with breast cancer in the middle of the pandemic — a cancer diagnosis is isolating enough, but COVID protocols made it difficult to connect with other warriors, friends and family. But then she started writing poetry, and Sara was able to face the darkness and turn her experience into something beautiful.
Young Survival Coalition’s Tour de Pink raises funds for young adult breast cancer support.
Part two of the cW Slice of Life essay series, Part Two of Mandi Chambless’ “Tomorrow I’ll Know” takes readers through her cancer journey, exploring the fears that seem insurmountable, the grief of losing sight of past selves and the anxieties of not knowing what is to come — emotions that are real, raw and deserving of recognition.
Lauren Lopriore learns that the cancer journey doesn’t end once treatment is over.
In this new series called cW: Slices of Life, check out the journeys of cancer warriors who are taking things day by day. Read on for the first in a three-part story titled “Tomorrow I’ll Know” by Mandi Chambless.
Alina Mehrle was busy building an empire when she was diagnosed with aggressive triple-positive breast cancer. But it was her cancer journey that would go on to inspire an entirely new pursuit — the much-loved and award-winning skincare brand AMEŌN.
Sometimes your oncologist just isn’t the right fit—and it’s OK to find someone else who is.
Holly Hammond was only 28 when diagnosed with TNBC. Now, she’s redefining “terminal.”
Renee Ridgeley pushed for the inclusion of “The Simpsons” uniboob character Dr. Wendy Sage, but her breast cancer advocacy goes even further than that.
Recovery on Water takes on breast cancer on the Chicago River.
In this month’s Everyday Runway column, Melissa Berry shares her favorite items in her “Ultimate Post-Mastectomy Survival Kit” so readers can look and feel their best all day!
Breast cancer treatment didn’t slow Christine Whelchel down as her long-awaited dream came true: competing on “Jeopardy!” multiple times.
Esther and Alicia Tambe are empowering Black women with breast cancer through travel-based organization Fight Through Flights.
Arlene Karole’s career in educating educators served her well during her breast cancer diagnosis.
From reiki and facials to massages and meditation, Sole + Luna offers an array of holistic wellness services for warriors.
Why are underwire bras generally a no-go after breast reconstruction? Everyday Runway’s Melissa Berry searches for the answer while spotlighting some wire-free options for your next shopping spree.
Breast cancer warrior Yoli Origel details founding Cancer Kinship, an organization connecting warriors and thrivers for empowerment through human connection.
Lauren Lopriore has turned her cancer journey into an opportunity to provide care and comfort to other warriors through her business Liv & Let.
If you’re looking to get fitted while supporting a good cause, the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation has just the swag for you.
Breast cancer warrior and mindfulness facilitator Sharon Brock shares how her “LOVEE Method” inspired resilience throughout her own diagnosis and treatment.
Founder of Black Women Rising and breast cancer warrior Leanne Pero advocates for Black warriors and thrivers to receive the resources they need to beat cancer.
My mother’s cancer journey can teach others to trust Black women fighting for their health—and their lives.
Pregnancy can become a lot harder or even impossible after cancer, but a viable option exists for those who still dream of growing their family—surrogacy.
Obi “Obisoulstar” Uwakwe’s photography shows breast cancer warriors in a new light.
Issue 12’s thriver is Jamie Zeller Bitton who survived breast cancer.
Cheers to a good cause! Tasting Stars, a premier champagne event, held its 19th annual elegant evening of bubbly delight virtually to benefit A Silver Lining Foundation’s breast cancer screening initiatives.
Living Beyond Breast Cancer’s virtual wellness summit offers expert advice on nutrition, exercise and more to help you go from surviving to thriving after diagnosis.
Flat Closure NOW advocates and educates in support of aesthetic flat closure.
Breast cancer thriver Tracee Cole shares her experience of being diagnosed with stage II triple-positive breast cancer a mere month before COVID-19 shut the world down.
Breast cancer treatment can be a difficult and confusing journey. While there are numerous support systems designed to assist you, knowing the options available allows you to advocate for the care that best meets your needs. Below are 10 ways you can ensure and advocate for the best care for you in your treatment journey.
Breast cancer warrior Stephanie Yuskis found out she had two major health issues in the span of one week, and discovered strength through her son.
In our latest portrait series, we spotlight the many faces of the New Cancer Community.
Writer and artist Danielle Doby shares the lessons she’s learned about gratitude, grief and the infinite influence of cancer.
Though more common in women, breast cancer is devastating another demographic—men.
Juliet Aguwa details her cancer experience as an African woman and how she is bringing awareness to underserved communities, all while finding beauty again.
After surviving breast cancer, Nicole Czarnomski lives her life with joy and inspires others to find what makes them happy, even in the face of adversity.
Personal Ink, a program created by nonprofit Fuck Cancer, empowers women to reclaim their bodies post-mastectomy.
When you’re used to kicking back with a drink to unwind, choosing to abstain from alcohol isn’t easy. But for some warriors, it’s worth the sacrifice if it means lessening the risk of recurrence.
Our summer issue’s thrivers are the mother-daughter duo of Shelley and Dana Stewart, breast and uterine cancer survivors.
Project Koru is helping cancer warriors ride the waves of survivorship through its outdoor adventure camps.
As a breast cancer survivor, Amy Wu knew how to live with the uncertainty of the COVID lockdown by finding new ways to adapt and to advocate for others.
From losing a husband to losing a routine, issue 11’s bookshelf features tales from supporters and warriors alike that can help you make sense of a new identity.
Not all tattoos have meaning behind them, but these do. In cW’s newest portrait series, five women show off their ink that pays tribute to an array of cancer journeys, including their own.
Carla Walker wasn’t surprised when she received a breast cancer diagnosis—three of her sisters had also had the disease. But then her twin daughters were diagnosed too, situating Carla to set an example in survivorship.
Young Survival Coalition’s annual summit may have gone virtual this year, but there was no shortage of making connections and fostering community for young women warriors.
Going for a dip is no sweat with “Everyday Runway” columnist Melissa Berry’s guide to cute and comfortable swimwear for a post-mastectomy body.
After a difficult breast cancer journey, Lesley Nygaard turned pain into passion by creating a holistic nutritional resource for other warriors.
After a stage IV breast cancer diagnosis, Leslie Ferris Yerger realized there was a lot she hadn’t known about the risk of cancer when it comes to dense breasts. With the formation of nonprofit My Density Matters, she’s urging other women to take action.
Breast cancer warriors can find extra support through Boobie Crowns, an organization with an unconventional way of making you feel like royalty.
YSC offers educational materials, social opportunities and more for a younger subset of the breast cancer community.
While pushing for the option of women taking matters into their own hands when it comes to birth control, Saundra Pelletier was doing the same with her breast cancer diagnosis.
In all of her unfiltered and unabashed glory, GIRLvsCANCER founder Lauren Mahon has set out to show young women that they are more than a diagnosis.
At 41 years old, Lesley Nygaard was diagnosed with stage III breast cancer. What could have been a devastating experience inspired her to create a naturopathic medicine company to help others.
Memoirist Liza Marshall recalls how she reclaimed her intimacy and self-esteem after body-altering surgery and treatment.
One family’s history demonstrates how cancer can be passed from generation to generation—but so can courage.
During breast cancer treatment, it can be tough to tell others what you need when you’re not even sure yourself. Nonprofit organization Step Sisters is there to help.
Part-time certified fitness instructor Jennifer Sinkwitts was slated to run the Boston Marathon after an impressive qualifying time—then she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She decided to run anyway.
Mighty + Bright creator Sara Olsher is tackling difficult conversations with children through a line of books about coping with change and chaos.
You don’t get to choose when your cancer journey happens, but you can choose the ways you grow from it.
Poet, ayurvedic lifestyle coach, and cancer survivor Priya Kalra shares with Cancer Wellness a poem about her personal experiences.
“Everyday Runway” columnist Melissa Berry talks post mastectomy nipple tattoos with leaders in the temporary and permanent tattoo fields.
Never underestimate the power of a good outfit—or skincare routine or diet. Dr. Kordai DeCoteau believes style is more than just your clothing, and she’s helping warriors look their best to feel their best.
Melissa Berry of Cancer Fashionista shows us how a simple staple item can refresh your closet post-cancer treatment.
Two breast cancer diagnoses in her 30s have not stopped Chris-Tia Donaldson, lawyer and founder of natural hair care brand Thank God It’s Natural, from living her best life in the present.
Beauty doesn’t have to go on the backburner while living with cancer. In her new cW column, Cancer Fashionista creator Melissa Berry provides a one-stop shop for warriors seeking style.
Cancer has had a presence in Allyn Rose’s life for as long as she can remember. After witnessing her mother, grandmother and great aunt battle breast cancer, the model and former Miss USA underwent a preventative mastectomy. Now, she’s empowering previvors everywhere.
In our new portrait series, we capture the beauty of the New Cancer Community.
Gospel house music prodigy Dana Divine has a reputation for being the life of the party, so it’s no surprise that she brought that same upbeat energy to her cancer journey.
Danielle Mitchell, creator of the Adult Coloring Book for Breast Cancer Patients, is our Womens Health issue spotlight supporter.
While in treatment, four-time warrior Liz Benditt wasn’t finding any one-stop shops for actual helpful, functional self-care items. So she created one.
Philadelphia educator Erika Wimms’ teachings have expanded beyond just the classroom as she works to spread early awareness about breast cancer in Black communities.
A cancer diagnosis during a pandemic can feel like a double whammy, but Kelli Stanko ended up stumbling onto joy in the process.
New York-based infectious disease doctor and breast cancer thriver Dr. Alexea Gaffney answers your questions about staying healthy during the cough, cold and flu season.
Popular fashion, travel and lifestyle blogger Ceta Walters was ready to embark on her next phase of life when cancer came knocking. But despite it all, her diagnosis hasn’t kept her from sharing her wisdom with the world.
In her new book, professional race announcer and fitness innovator Fitz Koehler shares the laughs and tears of her breast cancer journey for other warriors.
Bridal shop owner Lori Allen had it all, including two successful TV shows, a strong marriage and loving children. But it took a breast cancer diagnosis for her to finally care for the most important thing of all—herself.
After three cancer diagnoses, Marianne Duquette Cuozzo found returning to her love of art helped her understand her changing body.
Tattooing is no longer just a way to express yourself. Paramedical tattoo artists like Elsa Milani are rethinking ink as a means to help cancer thrivers love their bodies.
By trusting her gut, Alejandra Campoverdi took genetic likelihood into her own hands and remained steadfast in her approach to breast cancer even when her support network didn’t fully understand. She hopes to inspire other women to do the same through her new PBS Documentary, “Inheritance.”
Whether it’s through news briefs, weather forecasts or traffic reports, journalists play an important role in the way we plan our day. These six Chicago women journalists take that influence one step further when it comes to cancer.
When blogger Kamelia Britton was diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer, she struggled to share her story with thousands of followers and find a sense of purpose. A stranger’s small act of kindness helped her do both.
The turmoil of blogger Anna Crollman’s cancer diagnosis at 27 was amplified when she learned treatment could lead to loss of fertility. Her path to pregnancy wasn’t easy, but it evolved into a beautiful testimony of strength.
Former model, runway trainer and confidence coach Lolita Frazier channeled her own pain to create Strut Talk. Now, people from all walks of life, including cancer warriors and thrivers, can learn how to strut through life’s most difficult challenges.
With the arrival of COVID-19 comes bouts of uncertainty, but a lot can be learned from warriors’ experiences with cancer and channeling resilience.
Social media has provided a platform for cancer warriors and thrivers to unapologetically share their journey while offering support and resources. Here’s six of our fave follow-worthy influencers doing just that.
Popular with celebrities and athletes alike, cryotherapy uses extremely cold temperatures to heal and treat a variety of ailments, from sore muscles to cancer.
FemTech entrepreneur and breast cancer survivor Efrat Roman’s EZbra helps breast cancer thrivers “recover with dignity.”
Kristen Thibeault, founder and CEO of corporate catering company Nybll, provides plant-focused, healthy meals that follow a cooking philosophy influenced by her own cancer diagnosis and recovery.
As a military wife, Kelsey Bucci is well versed in leaning into the unknown, and her unexpected breast cancer diagnosis was no exception. Through takeaways from her own fight, she’s now helping warriors everywhere feel beautiful and safe.
A cancer journey is deeply personal, but two-time warrior Christina Vaccacio chose to look outward and uplift others through sharing her story. It ended up impacting her own life in ways she never expected.
Unsatisfied with wigs, Sonya Keshwani of StyleEsteem created a new style of headwraps that are as stylish as they are functional.
At 23 years old, engineer Sydney Rozycki was on the cusp of young adult life when she received an unexpected breast cancer diagnosis. But she never saw it as being the end of her story—only a continuation.
Sofia Reino, a two-time cancer survivor, says the trials and tribulations of life in active treatment makes cancer warriors and survivors particularly prepared for difficult situations—including a pandemic.
Kym Douglas, a star of shows like “Home & Family” and “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” says her breast cancer diagnosis taught her one important lesson—how to advocate for herself.
We spoke with Dr. Jonathan Bank, a reconstructive plastic surgeon, about why medical facilities are cancelling cancer surgeries to protect patients.
The adaptive clothing brand AnaOno Intimates designs lingerie and loungewear for every body.
Being present helps us see where we really are. All you have is time.
In the fittest shape of her life, television host Samantha Harris got the surprise of a lifetime—she had breast cancer. Now, after successfully beating the disease, she’s sharing what she’s learned about the real meaning of health.
AnaOno Intimates, a lingerie brand designed for people affected by breast cancer, hosted their fourth annual fashion show last week in New York City, which featured courageous cancer survivors, thrivers, and supporters wearing fun & fearless fashions.
After her own battle, manager-to-the-stars and vivacious personality Clara Pablo brings breast cancer awareness to one very deserving and secretive population—the Latina community.
“I feel fine. I look fine. I’m functioning fine. And there’s no sense worrying about what’s going to happen,” says Warrior Mardie Anderson.
First, her sister-in-law was diagnosed with metastatic cancer. Then her father. Supporter Melinda George shares two poems in reflection of the shock of those diagnoses and her love for her family.
Since its inception in 2003, Tasting Stars has raised more than $520,000 for ASLF, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing equal access to breast cancer education.
Intermittent fasting (IF) has been proven to affect glucoregulation, inflammation, obesity, and sleep—all of which can decrease breast cancer risk. But how exactly does it work?
Chicago-based medical oncologist and cancer researcher Dr. David James VanderWeele answers your questions about BRCA gene mutations in men.
Sharsheret understands the wholly specific religious, cultural, and genetic implications of people of all Jewish backgrounds receiving a cancer diagnosis.
G.P. Gottlieb has always loved music—this was something her cancer couldn’t defeat. And after treatment, she found a way to share the joy of music with other cancer warriors.
Acclaimed poet Anne Boyer’s new memoir documenting her experience in treatment for breast cancer will break your heart but leave you wanting more.
Issue 4’s “Warrior,” Brooke Long, talks about how she stays strong after receiving a breast cancer diagnosis … twice.
A regular exercise routine can mean better treatment outcomes and reduced risk of recurrence, but how exactly does exercise manifest in the body?
During her three cancer diagnoses, Tameka Johnson was flooded with harsh emotions—pain, anger, fear, frustration—but found her respite in writing, in loving her daughter, and living life “on purpose.”
Issue 3’s “Thriver” is Maria Luisa Gonzalez-Crespo from Courage for the soul.
The Supporter featured in issue 3 of Cancer Wellness is Jodi Fyfe of Tickled Pink for Bright Pink.
After years of poor sun-protection habits, Jennifer Bringle’s breast cancer diagnosis finally made her get serious about skin cancer.
Claudia “Sunny” Hayes was diagnosed with breast cancer at just 25 years old. A new business owner, her rigorous treatment schedule almost ruined everything she had worked for, but maintaining positivity and a renewed focus on her goals allowed her to create a new kind of success story.
Created in the fall of 2016 by photographer Dave Burgess with henna artists Amanda Gilbert and Steve Stone, Crowns of Courage was displayed at ArtPrize 9 in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
When Jamie found a lump in her breast, doctors told her it was nothing to worry about, but she trusted her instincts and got a second opinion. When she was eventually diagnosed with breast cancer, Jamie truly understood the importance of patients advocating for themselves.
Clinical pharmacist Dr. Diana Rangaves answers your questions about preventing cancer.
After years of strained relationships and compounded stress, Jeri Walker’s breast cancer diagnosis helped usher in a new life of joy, creativity, and personal growth.
Dr. Sandy Goldberg, the organization’s founder, provides comprehensive breast health services for all of Chicago.
As the demand for clean beauty products grows, researchers are questioning the safety of talc.
The new executive director of Susan G. Komen Chicago shares her vision for the organization’s more inclusive future.
I think people want everything to be definitively over, and that’s what I thought it was going to be like. I didn’t realize every day, in some aspect, it affects my day.
Dana and Colleen do everything together. When they both get diagnosed with cancer, they come up with a plan to truly start living.
Most 10-year-olds find out how to make volcanoes in science class; I figured out boobs were just as sensitive and explosive.
Miss Nikki gets real (funny) about the practical benefits of her mastectomy and Make-A-Wish Foundation.
We celebrate the life and laughter of Miss Nikki, a Chicago-based stand-up comedian who fought and lost her battle with breast cancer.
While the Chicago Wolves are proud of their four league championships, they feel just as proud of their relationship with hockey fans, which enabled Chicago Wolves Charities to raise more than $4 million for local organizations.
