This week we are catching up with community ambassador Jackie.
Jackie is at home recovering from her oophorectomy and hysterectomy. Jackie is kind, courageous, brave and believes in Pink Hope and the invaluable support it provides to women like her. I am truly blessed to represent such remarkable women! Thank you for sharing your story xx

Have you been “Member of the Month” for Pink Hope? Sure Have!
If so, when? May 2010

Give us an update of what has been happening in your life since you became a member of Pink Hope? I had my bilateral mastectomy in May 2010, and a full reconstruction. I am literally days away (August 2011) from having a prophylactic hysterectomy and ovaries removed. The final phase of my BRCA journey.

Have you had surgery and if so, how have you recovered from your surgery? Thanks to Pink Hope – I knew exactly what to expect from my surgery. The saying “Knowledge is Power” couldn’t be more appropriate. I have recovered very well & happy with my results. Sure, there are some days when it all feels a bit tight or uncomfortable, but it’s mostly been great. I’m back into my exercising & I do 4 hours of yoga a week, which is great for my body, mind & soul!

Do you have any words of wisdom to give to other members of Pink Hope and other young women who are at high risk? I think that my surgery really gave me a sense of empowerment. My entire life was tainted with breast or ovarian cancer – from my grandmother, thru to my Aunts & eventually taking its toll on my lovely mother. Being High Risk gave me the opportunity to take some proactive steps to change my medical future. I was finally in control of the destiny that my genes had pre-determined for me.

What has becoming a member of Pink Hope meant to you? Pink Hope was literally the catalyst that made my decision about my surgeries. Before Pink Hope they were only ideas that I had given consideration to. Through Pink Hope I have met the most amazing network of women – who I can regularly call on for support & advice. Without Pink Hope I don’t think I would have been brave enough to go ahead with my life saving surgery. I’m proud to be an ambassador of this amazing community & feel very secure that I have some remarkable women on this journey with me.

Have you received a Pandora gift from Pink Hope? Yes

If so, what did you receive? A gorgeous bracelet for being Member of the Month & a beautiful butterfly charm at the Inaugural Pink Hope weekend.

Do you have a Pandora Bracelet? Yes – I have 2. One is my mums – which I absolutely treasure. It’s full of beautiful memories that we celebrated together. Just looking at it brings back great memories of our holidays, shopping adventures & significant moments that we shared. Very special indeed! The other is my own. I am creating my own memories & moments, that are signified by the charms on my bracelet.

Have you added to your Pandora collection? Can you send us a photo of your Pandora collection? Yes – I have added to my Pandora & I also wear it with my pink leather Breast Cancer bracelet that I bought last year.

In 30 words or less describe how you have made your Pandora gift part of your “unforgettable moments” in life and how does it inspire you? My Pandora bracelet signifies to me the beginning of my new life through Pink Hope. It’s a daily reminder that life is gleaming & sparkly if we care and look after it.