Winking for Women With Cancer

Here’s a story worth smiling about: today, June 13th, 2019, is #WINKDay, a day for us all to share our best winks on social media to raise money and awareness for women with cancer. The annual campaign was created by Look Good Feel Better, dedicated to helping women manage the appearance-related effects of cancer and its treatment. One Vancouver woman, Kim Angell, was diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2016, and found a support system via LGFB. We chatted with Kim about her cancer journey, the work being done by LGFB and what she’s planning to do today, on #WINKDay! —Noa Nichol

Hi Kim! Tell us a bit about yourself and your cancer journey to start.

I was diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2016, and, despite my family history of cancer, I never expected it would happen to me. At just 34 years old, I underwent a lumpectomy, countless rounds of chemo and radiation, followed by a bilateral mastectomy and three reconstructive breast surgeries all while trying to maintain a sense of normalcy as I struggled with the loss of my hair and my identity. During chemo treatment I saw a flyer for Look Good Feel Better and contacted my local Cancer Society to find a workshop. I didn’t know what to expect at first but my nerves quickly settled as I was welcomed by an incredible group of strong and courageous women who were facing cancer together, supporting one another, and sharing their stories and tips.

What is (and what is the aim of) #WINKDay?

Today is #WINKDay, an annual campaign to raise awareness of the appearance-related and psychosocial effects of cancer treatment. It also raises money for Look Good Feel Better, which each year helps up to 10,000 women facing cancer across Canada. Canadians from coast to coast are invited to take a picture/selfie showcasing their best WINK and post it to social media (Instagram, Facebook or Twitter) alongside #WINKDay and tagging @LGFBCanada. For every #WINKDay post, the Shoppers LOVE. YOU. program will donate $5 to Look Good Feel Better, helping women with cancer feel like themselves again (to a maximum of $50,000)!

What does the work done by Look Good Feel Better mean to you?

Look Good Feel Better is an amazing charity which helps women who are facing cancer feel like themselves again through complimentary workshops, which provide tools and techniques on skin care, loss of hair and cosmetic hygiene. Look Good Feel Better offers a welcoming environment where a woman can take some time for themselves while connecting with others facing similar challenges. At a time when I was really struggling with confidence and not recognizing the person staring back at me in the mirror, it made a huge impact on my life being able to attend a workshop, find beauty within myself again, and connect with other women going through the same thing in an open and honest environment. I walked out of the workshop that day rocking my bald head with my lipstick on and felt more confident and connected with myself than I had in a long time. The workshop made me feel supported and allowed me to help other women with their own journeys, too.

As a young person who has faced cancer, any words of comfort or wisdom to others in your age group and shoes?

You are not alone. It can feel incredibly overwhelming and isolating at times going through this but underneath lies an incredible community of young women who know exactly what you are going through and are there to support you, encourage you, and cheer you on every step of the way.

How will you be sharing your best wink today?!

I will be posting my best WINK on Instagram today!

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