Who Wears the Face of Cancer?

Who wears the face of cancer, and how can we spot them? In this thought-provoking article, one survivor shares her perspective.

BY Bonnie Annis

PUBLISHED January 30, 2018

Bonnie Annis is a breast cancer survivor, diagnosed in 2014 with stage 2b invasive ductal carcinoma with metastasis to the lymph nodes. She is an avid photographer, freelance writer/blogger, wife, mother and grandmother.

Who Wears the Face of Cancer?

I've often wondered what the poster child for cancer would look like. If we had to choose one singular face to represent the thousands and thousands of us who've been affected by cancer in some way, shape or form, who would we choose? Would we vote for the typical face cancer conjures up in our minds - the one with the frail body, the hairless head, the weakened gait and hollow eyes, or would we choose someone with evident strength of character - someone with a sparkle in her eye, a determined look on her face and an aura of determination?

Who would we choose and why? Have you ever thought about the face of cancer? Who wears it? And what would you say if I told you the face of cancer looks a lot like you? Would you believe me?

Look in the mirror. A quick glance may reveal nothing. As you peer at your reflection, what do you see? Your outer shell may appear completely normal, but inside, changes could be taking place without your permission. Cells could be mutating and dividing. Cancer could be growing. You could be a poster child for cancer.

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