Melanin & Pink Ribbons

June 6,2016 I was diagnosed with breast cancer and I will never be the same. Physically I faced a lumpectomy, 30 rounds of radiation, burnt broken and bleeding skin, fatigue, weakness, changes in the size of my breast, scarring and lymphedema Emotionally I fought through anxiety, self image issues, fear of reoccurrence, and feeling unseen by the medical community at large because of so few images of Black women.

I am thankful to have survived surrounded by my family affectionately known as Team Smalls, friends, church members, and sorority sisters.  

Breast cancer came in like a lion but after I survived I was left with physical and emotional distress to process.  Now one tells who about that part. 

I went on to found Melanin & Pink Ribbons: A Blog for Black Women Fighting snd Surviving Breast Cancer in 2021. I wanted Black women diagnosed to have information and options with images for us. I published Push the Button in 2024, Positive Affirmations for Breast Cancer Fighters & Survivors in 2025, Love, Strength and Crayons: A Therapeutic Coloring Book for Kids Whose Mom is  Diagnosed With Breast Cancer in 2026 and The Self Love Journal in 2026. The first three centers of tools and information lacking in our community. 

I did not choose breast cancer it chose me and although it was tough it was survivable and hopefully I am leaving a legacy of education, information, advocacy, support and resources for others behind me. 

So as I acknowledge and celebrate my 10 years as a survivor I am reminded there is far more work to do. So when I ask to share my post, buy a book fir yourself or as a gift, or join me on a podcast it’s not about me. It’s about fighting breast cancer by erasing the stigma and increasing applicable knowledge until Black women are no longer dying 42% more than our white counterparts.  Here’s to many more years of my survivorship !

I’m sharing this graphic to aid others on the journey to give hope and inspiration.