Ashley first and this girl felt that she had to do all that she could to be here annoying y’all FOREVER,” Bell shares. “Reflecting now, the focus of dealing with the possibility of long-term side effects was not on my mind at all. I had adapted to my circumstances. I remember just wanting to get through my diagnosis, one day at a time. My diagnosis is aggressive but so am I!”
Fortunately, with Bell’s aggressive approach to treatment, her health took a turn for the better.
“I have had no evidence of disease this whole year. This year was the best year of my cancer journey,” Bell shares.
“I will be on some type of treatment for the rest of my life. So, now what? It is putting a game plan in motion to deal with the onset of those painful side effects that will come along because of metastatic breast cancer treatments. I have learned how to manage my pain to a level that makes it bearable for everyday life,” Bell notes.
Advocacy and Breaking Barriers
Bell’s journey extends beyond her personal triumphs. Motivated by her own ordeal, she now passionately encourages Black women her age to prioritize regular testing and advocate for their health with the hopes that it will prevent others from enduring the same neglect she faced in her journey toward diagnosis and treatment.
“You know your body better than anybody [else]…never let anybody tell you about your body,” Bell advises.
Part of Bell’s advocacy work includes walking in New York Fashion Week for Cancer Culture x Ana Ono, which promotes inclusivity in intimate wear for breast cancer survivors. One notable piece is the unilateral sling bra called “Rachel”. The piece is designed for women with a single breast who chose not to undergo reconstruction. This initiative symbolizes a step toward empowering survivors and dismantling societal norms around beauty and femininity.
Empowering Others and Never Giving Up
Through her advocacy and candid sharing of her journey on platforms like YouTube, Bell hopes to inspire and empower others facing similar battles. Her advice to those navigating the complexities of healthcare is clear: always seek a second opinion and never underestimate the power of self-advocacy.
The breast cancer survivor also emphasizes the need for a robust support system, urging individuals to surround themselves with caring friends or family who can share the burden and provide unwavering support.
“My independence is how I cope with the diagnosis. Don’t be like me! Help is absolutely necessary and a strong support system is needed also. I DEFINITELY have that,” Bell concludes.
When to see a doctor
Knowing the symptoms of breast cancer is key to an early diagnosis and the best possible outcome. Here are signs to look out for:
- A lump or unusual thickening in the breast or underarm area
- A change in color or rash on the skin of the breast
- Unusual nipple discharge
- Swelling of all or part of the breast
- A change in size or shape of the breast
- Itchy, sore or scaling of the nipple
- Dimpling on breast skin or nipple turning inward
- Breast or nipple pain that does not go away
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, contact your physician for further testing. If you believe your doctor is being dismissive, remember to exercise your right to switch doctors or get a second opinion.