Huntsville Woman Empowers Others After Cancer Journey
In the heart of Huntsville, Alabama, a remarkable woman is turning her personal struggles into a source of support and empowerment for others. After a challenging year battling triple-negative breast cancer, Marie Held is stepping forward to raise awareness and create a community for those navigating similar paths, especially when faced with the tough decisions surrounding a mastectomy.
From Diagnosis to Decision
It was exactly a year ago this month that Marie’s world was turned upside down with her diagnosis. Forced to confront the harsh realities of her condition, she made some tough choices. “As soon as I found out [that I had cancer], I knew what I wanted,” she recalls. “I can get rid of the breasts and live and reduce the risk, so that’s what I did.”
However, the choice regarding breast cosmetics wasn’t as straightforward. Marie’s surgeon encouraged her to explore her options online, suggesting she check resources from reputable institutions like the Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic. It was through this research that she learned about the concept of going ‘flat’—a choice supported by a growing movement that sheds light on choosing to forgo breast reconstruction.
Breaking Down Stigmas
“I don’t think as a society [we recognize] that going flat, not wearing a bra, is OK,” Marie explains. She discovered that many cancer survivors live under the misconception that implants are their only option after a mastectomy. “It’s my body. I don’t have to have reconstruction. I don’t have to have implants if I don’t want them,” she asserts with newfound confidence.
Through social media and online support groups filled with fellow “flatties,” Marie found a community that celebrates these personal choices, highlighting the beauty in embracing their bodies after such significant changes. “I only wish I found these women sooner,” she admits. The journey to find a support group felt overwhelming, particularly while navigating the crises that cancer treatment brings.
Creating Support and Awareness
Now, with her battle behind her, Marie is committed to ensuring that women facing the emotional and physical turmoil of cancer and its treatments feel supported in whatever decisions they make. “It is a legitimate choice to go flat if that’s what you want. If not, that’s OK too!” she passionately states.
To champion this cause, Marie has organized an awareness walk in Big Spring Park on October 5. This event leads up to International Flat Day, which is celebrated on October 7. She invites flatties, survivors, family members, and anyone looking to lend support to join her. “I want all women to know that curves don’t have to define beauty or femininity,” she imparts.
A Celebration of Strength
The walk is set to begin at 9 a.m. on Saturday and will last for an hour. Participants will gather on the steps of the Huntsville Museum of Art located at 300 Church Street. Marie hopes to create an atmosphere where women can embrace their bodies and shine in their uniqueness. “They’re your battle scars. They are things you’ve been [through]. Be proud of them, you made it through!”
Marie’s initiative is not just a walk; it’s a celebration of strength, resilience, and the choices that define one’s journey through cancer. By advocating for options beyond reconstruction, she’s inspiring women in her community to embrace their stories and celebrate their healing journeys.
