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.
Necessity Is the Mother of Invention as a Breast Cancer Survivor
When innovation meets creativity, you never know what might happen, notably as a breast cancer survivor!
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Is It Possible to Completely Erase Cancer Memories?
Cancer is such a life-altering event, that it’s hard to fathom being able to forget all memories associated with it, but I did my best to make it happen.
Overcoming Cancer Helped Me Step Out of My Comfort Zone
After cancer, I finally went on a cruise and allowed myself to fight through my fears, which felt so freeing.
Why Do Breast Cancer Survivors Require Annual Prostheses Prescriptions?
After a recent fiasco while trying to order prostheses and bras, I have an important question I’d like answered.
Thoughts on Death and Cancer
When a friend recently asked if I’d ever thought cancer might kill me, I had to think back and examine myself.
Christmas Wishes: A Personal Reflection on Post-Cancer Anxiety
Last night, my husband asked what I wanted for Christmas.
Could Cows Hold the Key to Killing Cancer?
Could killing cancer be as simple as changing your diet?
Is It Possible to Be Thankful for Cancer?
Being thankful for cancer seems like an odd concept to grasp.
Choosing to Share Your Cancer Story Is Your Choice
Choosing to share your cancer story is a very personal choice.
Bras Don’t Have to Be Burdensome, They Can Be Brawesome!
A local art exhibit allowed expressive creativity on a unique canvas to raise breast cancer awareness.
Scars Fade, But Memories Don’t
Each October, we’re surrounded by the color pink as breast cancer awareness month gets into full swing. It can be a challenging time for many, but also a time of celebration.
Perceptions and Reflections on My Cancer Diagnosis
Looking back on the nine years since being diagnosed with breast cancer, here are my perceptions and reflections of the disease.
When the Fear of Cancer Recurrence Becomes Detrimental to Health
For the past nine years, I’ve struggled with waves of overwhelming fear of cancer recurrence. I knew I had an issue, but until recently, wasn’t aware of how much fear was affecting my life.
Mammograms and Mothering
Even though my children are grown up, I still worry about their health — especially when it comes to breast cancer.
Sometimes Cancer Surveillance is Satisfactory
When survivorship becomes long-term, it can be an adjustment to move from active treatment to periodic surveillance.
Heeding the Advice of My Breast Cancer Hero
As a breast cancer survivor, it’s not only my duty to help the newly diagnosed, but it’s also my responsibility to heed the advice of seasoned champions.
Everything Is Not OK: A TV Show Gave Me Flashbacks to Cancer
I thought my sensitivity to breast cancer scenarios on television shows had gotten stronger, but it hasn’t.
I Received an Unexpected Piece of Mail Regarding a Cancer Bill
Cancer often brings with it bad news, including expensive bills, but one day, a surprise came – one I’ll never forget.
The Day I Realized My Oncologist Was a Real Person
I always viewed my doctors as being unapproachable on a personal level. I thought they were there to examine and diagnose me, imparting wisdom I could never hope to attain, but one day I realized I was very wrong.
Being Persistent Pays Off in Cancer Advocacy
Fighting for something I believe in was worth it, especially since it came to my health after cancer.
Clear Cancer Scans Would Be the Best Gift of the Season
Now that I’ve met my insurance premium, I’m scheduling some year-end cancer appointments, and praying for good results.
Breast Cancer Camaraderie is Real
The breast cancer community is made up of men and women who understand the importance of camaraderie. By showing each other love and support, no one ever feels alone.
Does Dry Shampoo Pose a Possible Cancer Risk?
Dry shampoo has been my go-to when I was unable to shower, but a recent recall alert regarding a cancer-causing ingredient made me rethink the convenience associated with the product.
Preparing For a Season of Thanksgiving as a Cancer Survivor
Thanksgiving can be a stressful time for those with cancer, but it doesn’t have to be. I learned that it can also be a time filled with love and joy.
When It Comes to Post-Mastectomy Comfort, A Girl’s Gotta Do What a Girl’s Gotta Do
On a recent hiking trip, I first felt too hot with my homemade prostheses, but then self-conscious when I took them off.
Adopting a Dog Helped Me Out of the Post-Cancer and COVID-19 Rut
When I found myself struggling with anxiety and depression after cancer and COVID-19, I decided a therapy dog might be a good idea, so I adopted one.
I’m Letting Go of the Victim Mentality and Celebrating Life Post-Cancer
I recently decided to stop feeling like a victim in life after cancer. Instead, I’ll celebrate life every day.
A String of Medical Appointments Made Me Realize My Fear of Cancer Recurrence
I never thought I’d admit experiencing fear of cancer recurrence, but at a recent medical appointment I realized that I struggle with this fear daily.
Who Will Be the Next Celebrity Face of Cancer?
When celebrities are diagnosed with cancer, they wield great power to bring awareness to the disease but being in the public eye must be extremely challenging, especially when facing a personal health crisis.
A Cancer Lesson Learned from a Funky Pair of Shoes
Among the many lessons I’ve learned since my diagnosis with cancer, there’s one in particular that I refer to daily. It’s a lesson learned from wearing a pair of odd-looking shoes.