Baddie 2 Baddie: Episode 7- When You See Us; My Reconstruction, My Choice

Baddie 2 Baddie Episode 7: When You See Us; My Reconstruction, My Choice”

 

Research shows that Women of Color aren't given many options when it comes to breast reconstruction. These Baddies are dispelling that myth and sharing their decision on the type of reconstruction they chose and why! If you are a breast cancer survivor with questions on which type of breast reconstruction may be right for you, then this episode is a must listen! 

Hosts:

Ginny was diagnosed with ER/PR+ HER2-, stage I, grade 2, Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. After she completed active treatment in early 2020, she found the energy to focus on something other than herself and is now channeling her energy into advocacy and education – allowing herself to find some purpose from her cancer experience. Ginny is using her voice, her body, and her brain to bring attention to disparities in breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes between white women and women of color, and to normalize flat closure options after mastectomy. You can reach her at @shudlucky

Tandria was diagnosed with stage II IDC/DCIS ER/PR + Her2- breast cancer of the right breast on September 28, 2020, one month after her 30th birthday. She completed chemotherapy, double mastectomy, and radiation, and is now currently on hormone therapy. She's also a flattie! You can follow her at @tangie_e.

Natascha Vega is a Group Business Director at an advertising agency in NYC. She loves the creativity that comes with what she does and the opportunity to impact different markets and consumer needs around the globe.  Natascha is the proud “fur mom” of an amazing 17-year-old pup who has been her right hand and best companion a gal could ask for.  When she isn’t deep into her work, you can find her running the streets of Manhattan, logging some miles as she loves to stay active.   On September 11, 2020, in the midst of an already chaotic year, Natascha got a call that changed her life forever after detecting a lump the month prior on her right breast: "Ms. Vega, you have  triple positive stage 2 breast cancer." Natascha underwent 5 months of chemotherapy, a failed attempt at the cold cap treatment to preserve her hair, 15 rounds of radiation, and lumpectomy surgery.  She just finished immunotherapy and is currently taking the proper medications to prevent this from happening again.  You can find her on IG @gitana0930.

Niya was diagnosed with Stage IIb breast cancer in 2019 while 12 weeks pregnant at the age of 31. Niya's treatment consisted of single mastectomy, four rounds of chemo during pregnancy, four after giving birth, and radiation. Niye began sharing her treatment journey on social media to journal this difficult time in her life. Little did she know that she would connect with many young adults impacted by breast cancer. They would inspire her to advocate for women diagnosed during pregnancy, unilateral mastectomies, breast cancer body image, and financial assistance resources. Niya is a For the Breast of Baddie Ambassador, hosts support groups for parents with cancer in partnership with Smith Center for the Healing and the Arts and Bright Spot Network, and is the board secretary for the Still Standing Alliance. Breast cancer gave Niya a chance to start living the life she always desired. This self-discovery and healing journey helped Niya find herself and discover the magical moments every day.  You can find her on IG @niyaspurpose

Our Guest:

Natalia is a 37 years old with metastatic breast cancer, currently living in a suburb outside of Salt Lake City, UT. She is the mother of a 4 and 6-year-old. She was diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer in 2017 and metastatic breast cancer in 2019.  Before breast cancer, Natalia graduated with a Master of Public Administration from ASU and has a passion for public service and activism. Currently, Natalia is a host and senior producer for Our MBC Life podcast. Natalia advocates for breast cancer awareness and education, primarily in the Latinx community and for people of color.  Outside of her activism, Natalia enjoys the outdoors, traveling (when possible), cooking, and spending time with her family.  You can find her on IG @la_vida_natalia

Make sure to follow us on social media:

IG: forthebreastofus

Twitter: thebreastofus

Facebook: For the Breast of Us

Private Facebook Group: Breast Cancer Baddies

Breastofus.com 

Baddie Behavior and Baddie 2 Baddie original theme music, podcast production, and mixing by Sincere529 (www.sincere529.com)