Statistically, three women in this photo are likely to receive a breast cancer diagnosis in their lifetime. This is our close-knit Aotearoa New Zealand dance community. Candice has spent much of her career creating this circle, and just like the Phoenix for which her studio is named, I know we are all hoping that she will soon rise again with renewed health.
This is not a fundraiser for Candice specifically, and while she's ok with me mentioning her as my reason, this page is 100% operated by me (Juniper). The idea is to help increase research and resources for everyone that the Breast Cancer Foundation NZ can reach.
Early detection education is a key part of what they do, so give a wave next time you see the nurses in the pink van. I'm sure we would all love to see the qualifying age for free scans lowered in NZ, and in the meantime, outreach is key.
Your donation helps keep these nurses in the community, scientists in the lab, advocates talking to lawmakers, and counselors supporting patients individually. The Breast Cancer Foundation NZ website also has nurses you can call, chat communities, counselors, and many other resources.
General awareness is a good start, but it's really the conversations within families and friend groups that spur us to actually care for ourselves, and each other. I know that I've been having more of these important talks in recent weeks.
I hope you will share this story with any friends who need a little encouragement. Sending you all a big group hug, and please hold my virtual hand while I set a reminder to self-check this month!
Lovely initiative Juniper. Go you, go Candice and go all the people fighting breast cancer!