October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness, share stories of strength, and remind ourselves of the importance of early detection. We asked one of our customers, Sue, to share her story. It's a powerful reminder of the courage it takes to face breast cancer and the role that early detection plays in saving lives. Her story also highlights how crucial support is throughout the process, whether it’s from loved ones or from businesses like Blue Sky Lingerie that offer products tailored to survivors.

Sue's Story:

My name is Sue, and I was diagnosed with breast cancer in the fall of 2014. When I turned 50, I received a letter for mammography screening. Given that I’d had very cystic breasts, this was a procedure I’d undergone many times before. I booked my appointment and had it done. In the past, my mammograms and ultrasounds had always turned out fine. But this time, they found something unusual in my left breast, and I was monitored for a year. When things didn’t change or improve, a biopsy was done, revealing early-stage breast cancer — the beginning of my breast cancer journey.

Since surgery wasn't an option in Swift Current, my doctor recommended an MRI before seeing the surgeon in Regina. During my consultation, the MRI revealed a lump in my right breast that hadn’t appeared on the mammogram. A biopsy confirmed it was ductal carcinoma, and I was diagnosed with cancer in both breasts.

Things moved quickly after that. In January 2015, I had bilateral mastectomies, followed by four rounds of chemotherapy every four weeks.

At first, I didn’t want reconstructive surgery. I just wanted to heal and return to a normal life. I’d heard that Blue Sky Lingerie carried post-surgical tops, breast forms, and mastectomy bras, so shortly after my surgery, I visited them. They were wonderful—so helpful and supportive. I left with everything I needed.

A few years later, I decided to have reconstructive surgery, which involved two procedures. Both were successful. I consider myself very fortunate to have had my cancer detected early, my surgeries done promptly, and to have managed chemotherapy successfully.

I won’t lie—finding out I had cancer felt like hitting a brick wall. Everything stopped, and life changed overnight. But in time, you begin to live again. It’s been 10 years since my diagnosis, and today, I’m healthy, happy, active, and cancer-free. I’ve learned a lot over the years, and here are a few lessons:

• Every day is a new day; find something positive—it’s healing.
• My husband, family, friends, and yoga community were, and still are, my biggest supporters. Ask for help when you need it; you don’t have to go through it alone.
• You know your body better than anyone. Trust your intuition and be your own advocate.
• Live life to the fullest—things can change quickly.
• Early detection and treatment are crucial.

I’m so blessed to wake up every day and be here. I take nothing for granted.

Thank you for allowing me to share my story.

Supporting Your Journey with Blue Sky Lingerie

At Blue Sky Lingerie, we understand that breast cancer changes lives, and we’re here to help you feel confident and supported every step of the way. Our range of post-surgical products offers comfort and style for survivors like Sue:

• Mastectomy Bras: Designed with soft fabrics and pockets for breast forms, these bras provide the comfort and support needed after surgery.
• Post-Surgical Tops: These tops offer gentle support and easy access for post-operative care while ensuring a flattering fit.
• Breast Forms: Crafted to offer a natural shape and feel, our breast forms give you the confidence to feel like yourself again.

For anyone currently on their breast cancer journey or for those in recovery, we’re here to help. Visit us in-store or online to find products designed for you, by women who understand your needs.

Join the Fight: This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, let’s celebrate survivors, remember those we’ve lost, and commit to raising awareness for early detection. Together, we can make a difference.