loading
finding the joy through a long journey with breast cancer

As the patient liaison here at PRMA I am blessed to walk alongside a lot of our patients during their breast reconstruction journey. Although I am not able to journey with them all, I do make it a point to jump in to celebrate with these sweet women at their final stage (the micropigmentation) by taking their “Breast Reconstruction Graduation” photo. This is always a sweet moment for me as I capture their joy in the form of a picture as they stand proud in a hot pink cap and gown! A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of meeting and celebrating with one of our patients—Darlene.

Let me just start by saying Darlene’s joy is purely contagious! As soon as I walked into the room, my heart felt full as I helped her jump into her pink graduation gown for her photo. We began to talk about her journey. She shared with me her breast reconstruction experience with the DIEP flap, how happy she was to have been directed to the “artist” Dr. Arishita and PRMA, and how she couldn’t wait to help others who are about to begin their passage in restoring what cancer took away, even if it just meant “lifting her shirt up.”

I asked Darlene if she would be willing to share her story with the world in the hopes of encouraging other women considering breast reconstruction, and of course, she was on board!

Watch below as Darlene shares her story of victory and how she joyously transformed into a beautiful butterfly. (Caution…her laughter is contagious!)

 

Author: Courtney Floyd

Watch as Darlene shares her story of victory and how she joyously transformed into a beautiful butterfly after breast reconstruction surgery. (Caution…her laughter is contagious!)

Sign Up for Our Monthly Newsletter

Online Form – Newsletter Signup

Continue Reading

finding the joy through a long journey with breast cancer
A Joyous Journey Through Breast Reconstruction
Read More

 

how to tell your children that you have breast cancer
Involving Your Family In Your Breast Cancer Journey

Involving Your Family In Your Breast Cancer Journey July 09, 2020 Share on Facebook Twitter Linkedin Should you involve your family after a breast cancer diagnosis?  Among the many difficult questions parents face when a family member is diagnosed with cancer is “What do I tell my children?” Fearful that they might upset or worry […]

Read More

 

prma patient shares her journey through stage 2 breast reconstruction recovery
The Final Fitting: A Journey through Revision Surgery

The Final Fitting: A Journey through Revision Surgery July 09, 2020 Share on Facebook Twitter Linkedin What is recovery after breast reconstruction revision surgery like?  Back in February, Angie underwent DIEP Flap breast reconstruction surgery. She wanted to share her experience with women, so she made a video diary after surgery. Each day she documented what […]

Read More

 

expert nutritionist shares the importance of healthy diet and nutrients before breast reconstruction surgery
Guest Blog: Recommended Supplements for Breast Cancer Patients

Guest Blog: Recommended Supplements for Breast Cancer Patients July 09, 2020 Share on Facebook Twitter Linkedin Following a nutritious diet is important for everyday health but if you are preparing for surgery, a healthy diet is vital. The proper nutrients can boost your immune system and help you heal faster. Your immune system is responsible […]

Read More

 

when should women start getting mammograms
The Great Mammogram Debate

The Great Mammogram Debate July 09, 2020 Share on Facebook Twitter Linkedin When should you get a mammogram? Recently the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force released new recommendations for breast cancer screening. Although the American Cancer Society (along with many other medical organizations) recommend annual screening mammograms starting at age 40, USPSFT is now advocating […]

Read More

 

prma research team aims to further inform patients with their own studies
PRMA Research Strives to Solve Unanswered Questions

PRMA Research Strives to Solve Unanswered Questions July 09, 2020 Share on Facebook Twitter Linkedin The fields of breast cancer and breast reconstruction research have made incredible strides over recent years. New advances in chemotherapy agents, genetics, and surgical management of advanced breast cancer continue to change the landscape of treatment on a regular basis. […]

Read More

 

PRMA patients shares her experience with stage 2 breast reconstruction
Stage Two Breast Reconstruction Surgery (Revision Stage)

Stage Two Breast Reconstruction Surgery (Revision Stage) July 09, 2020 Share on Facebook Twitter Linkedin What is involved in revision breast reconstruction surgery?  Breast reconstruction is usually performed in stages. A second surgery—referred to as the “revision stage”—is designed to improve the overall cosmetic appearance. This procedure is typically performed three months after the initial […]

Read More

 

can 3d printing technology be used in breast reconstruction
3D Printing and the Future of Breast Reconstruction

3D Printing and the Future of Breast Reconstruction July 09, 2020 Share on Facebook Twitter Linkedin How is 3D printing being used in breast reconstruction?  Many news outlets have reported recently on new research being performed just up the road in Austin, TX. A company called TeVido is conducting research and experimenting with different 3D […]

Read More

 

Angelina Jolie sparks interest in prophylactic surgery for brca positive patients
The Angelina Effect – 5 Common BRCA Gene Questions

The Angelina Effect – 5 Common BRCA Gene Questions July 09, 2020 Share on Facebook Twitter Linkedin 1)What’s the scoop on the BRCA genes? BRCA1 and BRCA2 are genes that can have mutations which may lead to an increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer. 2)How do I know if I should get tested? Guidelines […]

Read More

 

prma billing will submit everything to your insurance for you
PRMA Billing Department is Here For You

PRMA Billing Department is Here For You July 09, 2020 Share on Facebook Twitter Linkedin Did you know insurance is required by law to cover your breast reconstruction surgery? That’s right! Not only are insurance companies required to cover your affected breast, they are also required to cover surgery of your unaffected breast as well. […]

Read More

 

post-img
Prev post

Involving Your Family In Your Breast Cancer Journey

Next post

What is Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy?

post-img

4 Comment

  1. Anonymous

    Dar, So proud of your growth and the grace you have shown towards this journey. Love the video and letting yourself be free…

  2. Anonymous

    Dar, May God always be with you. Your strength is unreal and I truly believe you will help so many others with this disease. You are truly a butterfly

  3. Anonymous

    Dar, your love, joy and peace is what has made you strong, so proud of you sharing your journey with us all! I too was diagnosed with cancer, just completed my radiation treatment. I also have that deep peace, love and joy going thru this trial. God has been my strength through it all! You’ve spread your butterfly wings and touching many lives…..even mine very deeply! Can’t wait to see you and hug you! Thanks for sharing your journey of hope with us! Lots of love dear couz!

  4. Anonymous

    Precious Dar, You are not only strong, courageous and inspiring (and that’s on an ordinary day), but your faith is contagious. I am so proud of you and love you even more for sharing your very personal journey. Your artistry goes beyond your God given talent for painting; you are an artist of life. I am extremely blessed to have you as my friend.