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By L i s a Lowd er m i lk
B
eing diagnosed with breast cancer is overwhelming. In addition to the initial shock that accompanies any cancer diagnosis, breast cancer patients face an additional burden: deciding whether to pursue reconstruction. For many patients, the choice to undergo reconstruction seems easy enough at first glance. Doctors offer reconstruction in part to cover up the scarring associated with mastectomies, and that is still the route most patients take. But the reality of reconstruction is far more complicated than many doctors would have us believe. In addition to a variety of health risks associated with reconstruction, including lymphatic cancers and autoimmune disorders, chronic pain is an all too common side effect. To avoid these complications, 25 percent of breast cancer survivors opt to forgo reconstruction.
Flatties gather in a spirit of joy and camaraderie, thriving and surviving after breast cancer. This month, they will rally in Cedaredge, Colorado on the world's largest flat top mountain—Grand Mesa.
FLAT OUT LOVE There is support for these women, who affectionately call themselves “flatties,” to feel comfortable in their own skin. Flat Out Love is a community of flatties on Facebook with the mission to ensure all flatties feel beautiful and whole again. Members hail from all over the world, including Australia, Africa, Canada and Mexico. The common thread tying them together is a sense of camaraderie, with gratitude for everything life has to offer. “I wouldn’t give my cancer back for anything,” said Lissa Sears, 48, of Indianap-
olis. “My life has changed so much for the better.” Sears, who has multiple sclerosis, opted to go flat because of the health risks associated with reconstruction. Before her breast cancer diagnosis, she worked in window sales. Now she’s a stand-up comic and works as an actress. “Everyone knows the saying, ‘You only live once,’ but the truth is, you only die once. You live every day. Take all the chances and live to the fullest!” said Sears. Nancy Brisk of Colorado Springs shares Sears’ sense of gratitude following her