Every Monday morning, a vibrant group of women stride into the Breast Cancer Welfare Association (BCWA) office, radiating warmth and optimism. This lively crew, known as the Thimble Thumbs team, dedicate their entire day to sewing temporary breast prostheses, each stitch infused with hope and compassion. Their mission goes beyond crafting; they create lifelines for women navigating life after breast cancer.
Source: The Star
Understanding Breast Prostheses
Breast prostheses are artificial forms which are meticulously designed to mimic the size, shape, feel, and weight of natural breasts. They are especially crucial for women who have undergone mastectomies, offering not just physical balance but emotional comfort as well. While often associated with post-surgery recovery, prostheses can also be embraced for various personal reasons, serving as symbols of resilience and self-acceptance.
Fara’s Journey: From Diagnosis to Empowerment
Fara Hariani, a volunteer at BCWA is looking forward to her breast prosthesis this year. She shares her story with makchic and it turns out to be a poignant reminder of life’s unpredictable nature. In September 2017, she accompanied her mother for a routine mammogram screening, a decision that would change her life forever. Initially dismissive of the need for a screening—there was no family history of breast cancer—Fara ultimately agreed, and the results were alarming.
At just 41, while working as a kindergarten teacher and raising her young daughter, Fara found herself grappling with a Stage 1 breast cancer diagnosis. The news was devastating, but her journey had only just begun. After consulting multiple doctors, she opted for a mastectomy to remove her left breast, a decision made after thorough research and soul-searching.
Fara’s resolve to educate herself about the surgery was unwavering. She attended health seminars, consulted specialists, and kept a positive mindset throughout the process. The surgery was a success, and she felt an immense relief in having made the right choice for her health.
Life After Mastectomy: A New Beginning
Four years post-mastectomy, Fara and her husband decided to expand their family in an unexpected way. In 2021, they welcomed a baby boy into their lives through adoption, further enriching their family dynamic. Fara also transformed her experience into a source of empowerment by volunteering at BCWA, where she is trained to teach breast self-examination techiniques, helping other women take charge of their health.
Her most important takeaway? The power of positivity. Fara emphasises the crucial role her supportive husband played during her toughest days. By choosing to focus on the bright side and surrounding herself with uplifting friends and family, she navigated her journey with grace.
Fara actively encourages her friends to perform self-exams and keep up with their annual mammograms. She advocates for simple, restorative practices, such as morning walks in nature and the joy of owning a pet, which helped her cope with the emotional toll of her experience. She also stresses the importance of seeking second opinions if uncertain, echoing her own proactive approach to health.
Now, Fara is considering her first breast prosthesis, a step she views as part of her ongoing journey of self-acceptance and healing.
The Thimble Thumbs Team: Crafting Hope
The Thimble Thumbs team at BCWA embodies community spirit and resilience. Comprising seven dedicated breast cancer survivors, they gather weekly to craft handmade breast prostheses, which play a vital role in restoring balance and confidence to women post-mastectomy. Their creations include soft foam temporary prostheses, provided free of charge, and a microbead-filled version for a more natural feel, available at a nominal price.
Source: Instagram
This team not only offers physical products but also emotional support, creating a safe space where women can share their experiences and challenges. Their commitment transforms the act of sewing into a powerful symbol of solidarity and healing.
The Role of BCWA
Fara’s journey would not have been as hopeful without the support of BCWA. Founded in 1986, the organisation plays an essential role in providing emotional, social, and material assistance to those affected by breast cancer.
(L) BCWA provides clinical breast exams in their MURNI mobile clinic; (R) Breast cancer survivors on an early morning hike in Kuala Lumpur, part of BCWA’s monthly walks for survivors. Source: Instagram
Be an Overcomer
Fara and the Thimble Thumbs team exemplify the strength of community, the importance of support, and the power of a positive outlook. Their stories remind us that even in the face of adversity, we can find purpose, strength, and connections that uplift and inspire. Whether through the creation of prostheses or the sharing of personal experiences, these women embody the spirit of resilience, proving that together, we can overcome even the most daunting challenges.
If you or someone you know currently needs support while undergoing breast cancer treatment or in need of a therapy session to discuss symptoms of cancer recurrence or treatment complications, BCWA is there to support you. Their dedicated team is ready to guide you through every step of your journey, providing resources and a community that fosters resilience and hope.
