The month of October honors Breast Cancer Awareness and celebrates awareness, education and empowerment. Target partner, makeup artist and breast cancer survivor Sonia Kashuk shares her journey with us.
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You’re a breast cancer survivor. How has your journey changed your outlook?
Sonia Kashuk: I am one of the lucky ones. I had been in the high surveillance program at Memorial Sloan Kettering due to my strong family history of the disease; it wasn’t if I was going to get breast cancer but when. Looking back, early detection was key, so the more I can do to get the word out about proper prevention, the more lives will be saved.
How did you find the strength to face breast cancer?
SK: I had a great role model in my mother, who is also a breast cancer survivor. She was diagnosed at age 51 and I’m happy to say she is alive, well and vibrant today at 81. Also, at the time of diagnosis my children were fairly young so I knew I had to put on a face of courage, put one foot in front of the other and plow through any hurdles that were placed in front of me. It’s all about a positive attitude: healthy mind, healthy body.
What are your plans to celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Month?
SK: I am attending numerous fundraisers in support of Breast Cancer Awareness and most importantly, I am hoping to raise more awareness and financial support through the sale of my Proudly Pink Brush Set, sold exclusively at Target with 15 percent of proceeds going to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF).
Did your beauty routine change after your diagnosis?
SK: I believe strongly in beauty from the inside out. Therefore, exercise and healthy eating have, and always will be, two important mainstays in my life.
Do you have any advice for women who are battling breast cancer and who may struggle to feel beautiful during their hardship?
SK: Try to keep your body active, even if it’s as low impact as taking a walk. Beauty comes from within; feeling good emotionally translates into feeling good physically. Makeup is great for a boost in the right direction and it really can help a woman feel comfortable in her skin because the way you feel makes it all come together.
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