3 min read

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

As we acknowledge Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we reflect on the strength, resilience, and hope within our own H.O.O.V.E.S. family and community. This journey touches many lives, including those who serve alongside us and those we serve. Through stories of courage and perseverance, we aim to raise awareness, inspire action, and foster a deeper connection to the healing power of support. Together, we celebrate the brave individuals who have faced breast cancer, honoring their legacy and uplifting those who continue the fight with the same steadfast spirit we hold at H.O.O.V.E.S.

Megan Smits' Journey:

This year, our H.O.O.V.E.S. family welcomed Megan Smits, a talented photographer and resilient breast cancer survivor. Megan's journey through adversity has given her a deep appreciation for capturing the moments that truly matter. Her expertise behind the lens brings a unique perspective to the work we do, as she skillfully portrays the healing connections between our veterans, first responders, and horses. Megan’s courage, strength, and passion shine through her photography, inspiring everyone around her to see beauty even in the toughest battles. We are grateful for her contributions, her enduring spirit, and her journey of hope.

What about your survivor journey makes you a crusader for breast cancer awareness?

I don't know that I'd consider myself a crusader, but I believe deeply in helping others. As a woman who was diagnosed with invasive lobular carcinoma at 42 following my first ever screening mammogram, I can honestly say I was a bit shocked. With that, I've decided it's time to scream it from the rooftop that every woman out there needs to take her health seriously and go to those annual appointments!

How did being diagnosed change you? Affect the way you look at yourself?

Being diagnosed actually ended up changing my life for the positive. I'm sure that sounds odd to hear, but ultimately it broke me out of some of my patterns and habits that I'd been living in too long. Since the diagnosis, I look at my life with far more value - who I spend my time with, how I spend that time - there is significance to all of it. I set better boundaries now, and I don't compromise as much. I'm more focused on my growth, living my purpose, and seeking joyfulness. I move differently now.

Did you choose to have breast reconstruction? What advice would you give newly diagnosed women?

I opted for a double mastectomy to flat; I didn't feel that implants would be the healthiest choice for me, and I wasn't in a position to take the time off from my career to have a DIEP flap procedure. For other women going through this diagnosis, I'd recommend second opinions and making sure to take photos with you of the result you're hoping to attain. Everybody is different, and every body is different, don't be afraid to advocate for yourself - no one will fight for you like you will.

How has your connection with H.O.O.V.E.S. impacted you and your day-to-day journey?

Being able to volunteer my time with H.O.O.V.E.S. goes back to my desire to live my life with purpose. It has allowed me to pour myself into causes I'm passionate about, network with other amazing people, and give back to a community that I care deeply about.

How could it help others who are going through this traumatic experience?

When you take the time to discover your purpose, it makes all the difference. The team to H.O.O.V.E.S. has this amazing ability to help you get to the core of who you are, and help you develop a plan to live that life that you were meant to live. Isn't that something we all want for ourselves? It doesn't matter if you've had breast cancer or not - H.O.O.V.E.S. is for you.

Thank you, Megan, for sharing your perspective on this life-changing concern!