There is an inherent connection between silence and apathy, which is why Angelina Jolie’s decision to undergo a preventative double mastectomy, as described in the New York Times, was so powerful.
Conversation, or the termination of silence, leads to discussion, options, and empowerment. Women who are able to talk about their illness are more prone to feeling in control of it, instead of feeling victimized.
Jolie tested positive for the BRCA 1 gene, an indicator of both breast and ovarian cancer. Women with the gene are much more likely to develop breast cancer – Jolie decided to undergo preventative surgery to bring her risk down from 87% to under 5%.
“On a personal note, I do not feel any less of a woman,” she writes. “I feel empowered that I made a strong choice that in no way diminishes my femininity.” This statement of hers gave courage to thousands of women around the world, and not just to those battling breast cancer.
For many of us, our self worth is tied to our appearance. We feel sexy when we lose weight and we feel more confident when others are attracted to us. But Jolie’s confession was a reminder that the body doesn’t make the woman. Her spirit and values do.
For many of us, our role models are the people we know; the people we love and aspire to be like are those whom we know intimately. We’re surrounded by fierce women who guide us in times of need, but sometimes it’s nice to look outside our social circles and empathize with the distant and glamorous.
So, here are photos of gorgeous, talented, and inspirational women who turned their battle with breast cancer into opportunity – whether it was to educate other women or inspire them, they created a dialogue and a transparency that every woman can benefit from.
1. Nancy Reagan
While serving as First Lady, Nancy Reagan was diagnosed with breast cancer (1987). The New York Times reported on the intimacy between husband and wife in the hospital and the ensuing media attention reportedly led to an increase in the number of women who got mammograms.
2. Christina Applegate
She has helped to raise millions for breast-cancer education and research and founded Right Action for Women, which provides financial aid to women to afford MRI screenings.
3. Cynthia Nixon
Two years after her surgery, Nixon became an ambassador for Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
Our request from Maxim Hygiene, is to ask you to take a few minutes of your time to share this with your loved ones and make sure that they know their options and the power they can get from sharing them and their experiences. Women are the backbones of families — you’re never just saving one life, you’re saving many.