These Cancer Survivors' Scar Stories Will Make You Cry
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They say that every scar tells a story, but some of those stories are far more personal and empowering than others. In 2011, Australia native Jasmine Gailer had survived osteosarcoma, but the removal of a bone tumor had left her with a long scar running down her leg. Instead of feeling broken, she decided to feel empowered — which is when she posted a photo of her scar online. That was the beginning of Scar Stories, which Jasmine founded to raise awareness about young adult cancer, by showing the "pretty and gritty" sides of illness.
"Over four years I have grown from feeling broken and defeated, to feeling powerful, interesting, and beautiful," Jasmine explained. "Now, my mission is to help others feel the same."
Since Scar Stories was founded, the organization has taken dozens of beautiful portraits, raised thousands of dollars, and won prizes for its stunning imagery. Read on to discover some of the moving stories, then visit Scar Stories to learn how you can make a difference.
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Jasmine, Osteosarcoma
"To some a scar is a deformity, an affliction. To others a scar is a memory, a story, or a mystery. And to an increasing number of people, a scar is a symbol of loss, pain, and triumph. My scar has been all these things to me."
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Sara "Sunny," Osteogenic Sarcoma
"I was diagnosed at age eight. I guess at that age you don't really understand what is happening. My scar is an important part of my life. It shows the pain and struggle that I have managed to overcome."
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Lisa, Hodgkin's Lymphoma
"I was 19 when I found out I had cancer. In the two years of my cancer journey I have accumulated numerous scars and war wounds, as I like to call them. They are each a reminder of my battle and my survivorship. Some of the scars have faded over time, but the scar on my chest is still noticeable and always will be. My scars are my constant reminder that I survived something that was mentally, physically, emotionally and socially demanding."
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Hayley, Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
"Cancer isn't just a diagnosis, or something that you simply get then disregard; it becomes your entire life. You might forget the little things you went through every day and how they made you feel, like the vomiting, the bleeding nails, losing hair, stomach ulcers, and allergic reactions. But every morning when you wake up and look in the mirror and see your scars, you are reminded of everything else that comes along with being in remission."
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Chris and Bridie, Leukemia and Meningococcal Disease
"Embrace your scars, and each other."