Rosewater Tears
In 2016, I noticed a small bump on my collarbone.
I ignored it—for two years.
By August 2018, the bump began to hurt. At the same time, the skin around my nipples and areolas started peeling. My left breast began to change shape, and the nipple on that side became inverted. Something felt very wrong.
I had a biopsy on October 16, 2018.
Just two days later, on October 18, I was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer, specifically multifocal invasive ductal carcinoma. My breasts were removed on November 14, 2018.
Treatment, Loss, and Survival
The cancer had passed into my lymph nodes.
My treatments continued until May 2019.
What followed wasn’t just physical healing—it was emotional unraveling.
Rosewater Tears
Look how quickly you can be stripped down.
Just blink.
I am often speechless—hurt, bitter, and still trying to process everything that happened. I wake up every day trying to keep my head above myself, desperately attempting to make sense of my existence after cancer.
At night, I fight the residual pain and long-term side effects, while quietly reminding myself that it’s okay to dream—
even though I’m scared.
This is survivorship.
Messy. Tender. Real.
Living Flat and Finding Ground Again
After mastectomy, I chose to live flat joining a growing community of survivors who are reclaiming their bodies and identities on their own terms. Becoming part of the global flatties community helped me feel less alone in a body forever changed by cancer.
Choosing to live flat isn’t about what was taken away—it’s about how we move forward with intention, autonomy, and truth.
For Those Facing Similar Decisions
If you are considering going flat after mastectomy, it’s important to ask specifically for an aesthetic flat closure, communicate clearly with your surgeon, and advocate for the outcome you expect.
Living flat is a valid, healthy, and empowering choice—and one that deserves visibility, respect, and education.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What type of breast cancer was Regina diagnosed with?
A: Regina was diagnosed with Stage 2 multifocal invasive ductal carcinoma.
Q2. Did the cancer spread to her lymph nodes?
A: Yes, the cancer had passed into her lymph nodes.
Q3. When did Regina complete treatment?
A: Her treatments ended in May 2019.
Q4. What does it mean to live flat after mastectomy?
A: Living flat means choosing not to have breast reconstruction and embracing a flat chest after mastectomy.
Q5. Is flat closure a medically valid option?
A: Yes. Flat closure is a safe and medically supported option for many people after mastectomy.
A Shared Invitation from Learn Look Locate
If you feel called to share your story, we invite you to do so here at Learn Look Locate. Your experience—whether you’re newly diagnosed, in treatment, or years beyond—can help others feel less alone, better informed, and deeply supported.
Every story shared becomes part of a larger tapestry of education, compassion, and connection—where survivors learn from one another and find strength in knowing they are seen.
Your voice matters. And your story may be exactly what someone else needs today.
Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!