My Cancer Story and why I chose to go Flat
Hi, My name is Kallie Harrison. I was diagnosed with DCIS in November 2022 and received a double mastectomy with an aesthetic flat closure in December 2022. I was very fortunate to have found it early and did not need any other treatment. During my recovery (which I am still in) I continue to have gratitude for all the knowledge that I received in my education and training. I have been fortunate to have the time and resources to place my effort and energy into recovering and healing from surgery as well as focus on getting stronger mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally. I truly believe my life has led me up to this moment. It has not been an easy journey, but I continue to find gratitude, blessings, and magical moments along the way.
Because of my education, training, and my personal experience, my goal is to be able to give back to women who might not have the knowledge, time, and/or resources. I also want to encourage women to make their own educated decisions when deciding what option is best for them when diagnosed with breast cancer. For me, it was to go flat. I have no judgment on what others choose; however, I would ask that any woman who has to make this decision be curious about why she is choosing what she is choosing. Is the decision for you or someone else? Is it what society thinks you should do? Is this what society has decided women should look like? Is it what your surgeon thinks you should do? Do you know the health risks of getting reconstructive surgery with implants? This is the time to dig deep and see what your heart truly wants. As I have always said, “This is just my earth suit,” and now mine is even more beautiful and authentic.
To honor my choice of going flat, I started a full chest piece with a tattoo artist in Berkeley California. I posted this picture and these thoughts after my 3rd, 7-hour day of tattooing. “As I lay there in deep meditation and contemplation, the pain inflicted by the tattoo gun reverberated through my entire being. It shook loose and transmuted all the pain and grief that had become deeply rooted in my fascia, muscles, and organs. I welcomed this pain, for I could sense the sticky, mucky emotions being released through the vibrations.
In creating this page, my hope is that it can be a resource for others going through a double mastectomy. Below you will find my “must haves” that were crucial in my healing process and a video to learn how to do self lymph massage.
You will also find a link below where you can schedule a free compassion call with me if you have more questions or would like support. We don’t have to go through this alone.
Lots of love and blessings to all of you.
Kallie
With each passing moment, as the emotions dissipated, my thoughts turned to every individual who played a role in my journey throughout this year. The sheer number of people who supported me during this challenging time is overwhelming. My gratitude for every one of you surpasses any words I could express. Whenever I found myself doubting my strength, someone in my community would appear, extending a helping hand and guiding me through the darkness.”
Need support? I would love to offer you a free compassion call.
My Double Mastectomy “Must Haves”
Helpful Items to Have During Recovery
Healthy Prepared Meals & Quick Protein Ideas
Helpful Video’s
Vanessa Hemingway is a Holistic Occupational and Lymphatic Therapist. To learn more about her or see more helpful videos, please click on the link below.