Today we’d like to introduce you to Cindy Papale.
Cindy, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I was initially diagnosed with a stage I, multi-focal, invasive breast cancer one week after my 46 birthday in July 2000. Since I worked at the University of Miami Sylvester Cancer Center and worked for a professor who did surgery (mastectomies, lumpectomy) on patients, I knew only too well what I was in for. After being diagnosed, I was approached by a professor in the Psychological Services Center and asked to speak in her psychology class and to share my experience having had breast cancer. After speaking in over ten classes I decided to write my first book, The Empty Cup Runneth Over, an easy to read guide that helps high school and college students understand about breast cancer. My second book “Miami Breast Cancer Experts” followed nine years later where I have contributing chapters from physicians throughout Dade County in private institutions and private practice to extend to a larger audience other than young women and men. My third book Experts in Pink is our most rewarding as some of the same physicians wrote more updated information (medical technology changes constantly) on breast health as well as information on mindfulness and meditation, music therapy, state of the art treatments like radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Experts in Pink is a treasure trove of information to give much hope who are diagnosed with breast cancer, anyone wanting to know about breast cancer, and for the caregiver, who is sometimes overlooked. The chapter on Caregiving was written by Gary Barg who shares his own experience as a caregiver, and how he developed his own company to help others. I recently have been featured in all our community newspapers, appeared on 101.5 LITE FM radio, and appeared on channel 6 in the mix here in Miami, Florida. I so enjoy giving back and helping others going through their journey with breast cancer. His company’s name is “Caregiver Magazine” that he distributes via email to thousands. If anyone is interested in reading his amazing magazine monthly, you can contact him at [email protected]. I am currently collaborating with Peabody Award-winning producer Derek Britt on a feature film inspired by my journey through the world of breast cancer. Cindy Papale/author/breast cancer survivor/advocate.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It certainly, like for many diagnosed with breast cancer, has not been a smooth road. There were many ups and downs especially in my marriage as well as with my friends. Some couldn’t handle my being diagnosed with breast cancer and even stopped talking to me. While this sounds terrible for a friend to do, I now understand why. One friend who I recently connected with told me she was afraid she would lose me as a friend and had many losses in her life, and just couldn’t handle another one. We are now reconnected and working through those issues together. The other struggle I had was losing my breasts and not having reconstruction for the first five years. I was afraid of a recurrence and waited that time before going back to the operating room again for surgery. Fast forward 20 years, I am, thank God, doing well and giving back as much as I can in the community to others going through their struggles.
Please tell us about your work.
I am a three time author/advocate/survivor enjoying giving back to others and letting all know there is life after breast cancer. My co-author Sabrina Hernandez Cano is a registered dietitian, nutrition counselor, and certified diabetes educator who has her own company “Hummingwellness.” Her Center offers mindfulness and meditation, facials, massages, and psychological counseling for many going through not only breast cancer but any cancer. She is doing well and her practice is located in South Miami. She is my dearest friend and co-author for all three books, and I am very proud of her for all she is doing to help others as they go through their journey with breast cancer. In question what sets me apart from others, absolutely nothing! Anyone diagnosed with breast cancer or any other cancer all go through some kind of struggle, some the same, and others with their unique family issues. We are all in this together.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
Lessons Learned: I have learned not to take myself too seriously, and that no matter how tough things are they always get better. Experts in Pink is also available now in Spanish, both on AMAZON and KINDLE. To those who live in South Florida, both books are available at Books and Books 265 Aragon Avenue, Coral Gables, Florida 305-442-4408.
Special thank you to my friend Tracy Milgram, founder to BRCAstrong where I am proud to have her in my book “Experts in Pink”.
Image Credit:
Photo with Dr Javier Jimenez, Cardiologist at South Miami Hospital and wrote a wonderful chapter in my book Experts. My co-author in blue, Dr Javier Jimenez and host Kathy Bucci Health Channel Miami Florida. Me surrounded by flowers in a field.
Suggest a story: VoyageMIA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
