breast cancer is not a pink ribbon
The Scar Project, an exhibit by fashion photographer David Jay, opened in New York City last week. The exhibit of large scale photographs showcases images of young breast cancer survivors.
If you're like me, you probably know someone who has been affected by breast cancer but if you're like me you probably also have never seen the effects of breast cancer up close and personal.
The young women involved in The Scar Project bared their breasts in an effort to heighten awareness about the disease. Honestly, my breasts are whole and I would find this a very difficult thing to do. The courage shown by these women is amazing. (Then again, their courage and believing helped them be victorious in the first place, so it's not surprising they have the resolution to participate in the project.)
Jay says, "“For these young women, having their portrait taken seems to represent their personal victory over this terrifying disease. It helps them reclaim their femininity, their sexuality, identity and power after having been robbed of such an important part of it. Through these simple pictures, they seem to gain some acceptance of what has happened to them and the strength to move forward with pride.”
These images will definitely cause a reaction within you. Some are almost beautiful and others will break your heart. I think the photographs of the pregnant women are the most moving. To see their bodies full of life after fighting for their own is emotional, to say the very least.
The best place to see the photographs is here and I hope you do click on the link. The pictures are confronting and, frankly, educational. I think they challenge what we as a society consider beautiful. While they are a very real reminder of how vicious cancer is, seeing these young women alive and well is a reminder that people really can triumph over cancer.
The young women involved in The Scar Project bared their breasts in an effort to heighten awareness about the disease. Honestly, my breasts are whole and I would find this a very difficult thing to do. The courage shown by these women is amazing. (Then again, their courage and believing helped them be victorious in the first place, so it's not surprising they have the resolution to participate in the project.)
Jay says, "“For these young women, having their portrait taken seems to represent their personal victory over this terrifying disease. It helps them reclaim their femininity, their sexuality, identity and power after having been robbed of such an important part of it. Through these simple pictures, they seem to gain some acceptance of what has happened to them and the strength to move forward with pride.”
These images will definitely cause a reaction within you. Some are almost beautiful and others will break your heart. I think the photographs of the pregnant women are the most moving. To see their bodies full of life after fighting for their own is emotional, to say the very least.
The best place to see the photographs is here and I hope you do click on the link. The pictures are confronting and, frankly, educational. I think they challenge what we as a society consider beautiful. While they are a very real reminder of how vicious cancer is, seeing these young women alive and well is a reminder that people really can triumph over cancer.