Survivorship and Advocacy: Taking Back Control
This article is part of an informational series with Dr. S. Brenda Moorthy and her patient, breast cancer survivor, and Sedona resident, Magdalena Romanska. It was originally published in Sedona Monthly magazine.
How did you get started advocating for breast cancer awareness?
Magdalena: Once I got the all-clear from Dr. Moorthy on my double mastectomy, I knew I wanted to help patients who were in a similar situation. Like many cancer patients, the financial burden of treatment was significant. I also did not have access to many of the big-city resources like cleaning, transportation, and other support services that are often provided to cancer patients.
I then learned about The Greatest Needs Fund–HonorHealth’s nonprofit that provides for all their patients’ basic needs. Knowing how important those services are, I arranged to add them to my will. As a Realtor® in Sedona, I also had contacts across my field who were always looking for places to donate. Simply by contacting them, I’ve been able to direct thousands of dollars and organize many projects benefiting breast cancer-related charities.
What is the most important message you hope to share as a cancer survivor?
Magdalena: I want people to know that coming back is possible and that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Women reach out to me because I am a thriving example that it is possible to get the c-diagnosis, fight it, fully recover from it, and give back to other patients and survivors.
What are some important advocacy topics beyond early detection?
Dr. Moorthy:
The importance of continuing hormone treatments after survivorship. Many patients quit early due to side effects, but that can increase your risk of recurrence by as much as 50%. Instead, keep working with your provider to minimize side effects.
Lifestyle changes like a healthy diet are pivotal. Regular exercise can also decrease your risk of recurrence by 50%.
How can I get involved in advocacy work?
Magdalena:
Get vocal in support groups online and on your social media. You’ll be surprised how many people reach out with a “me too” looking for advice or just an empathetic ear.
Contact the groups who helped you the most, ones your cancer center recommends, or even those you wish could have helped more. If you saw gaps in services provided, this is an excellent opportunity to offer fundraising support, technical assistance, and more!
Find creative ways of giving. Organize a community fundraiser or simply send emails out to your coworkers, friends, and family letting them know who helped you and why the cause is a worthy one. Often, people are willing to give but don’t necessarily know which charities are most impactful. To give you an example, some of my clients donate to The Greatest Needs Fund in my honor at the end of each fiscal year.
What if I’m just tired?
Magdalena: There is nothing more normal than just needing a rest when you finally make it across the survivorship finish line. Many people I talk to survived and never want to hear the “cancer” word again. It is okay to move on! Besides, what greater act of rebellion against cancer is there than living your life fully and joyfully?