Real Talk: A Story of Strength and Support During Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Every year, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month—a time for solidarity, support, and spreading the word on just how powerful a caring community can be. With breast cancer affecting around 13% of people over a lifetime, most of us have or will have someone close to us impacted by it. Breast cancer isn’t just a medical journey; it’s emotional, life-changing, and deeply personal. Looking back on this past October, we reflected on what real support looks like—especially from the healthcare teams who walk alongside patients every step of the way.

We recently heard from Soffe Timm, a nurse specializing in radiation oncology, to get her take on the realities of breast cancer care. For Soffe, treating patients goes way beyond procedures and protocols. It’s about creating a safe space for healing and connection. And as she shared her insights, we were reminded that in healthcare—and in life—it's the little things that make the biggest difference.

"Women come in with so much on their shoulders—fear of what’s ahead, fear of side effects, and sometimes the fear of feeling like they’re losing part of themselves,” says Soffe.

The toll of a breast cancer diagnosis is intense, not just physically but emotionally. Beyond the visible effects like hair loss, fatigue, and scars, many women also face the weight of depression, anxiety, and a host of other difficult emotions.

So, how does someone like Soffe support her patients in such a powerful way?

“We created a positive affirmation board in our waiting room where patients can post words of encouragement to each other,” she shares.

It’s such a simple idea, but it’s had a big impact. “Our patients are in treatment every day, sometimes for weeks, so it’s great to see them build each other up, even from just a few words left on a board.”

These affirmations turn the waiting room into a place where women can find hope and strength—not just from doctors and nurses but from each other.

In Soffe’s experience, a sense of community is key to helping patients navigate such a difficult journey. “Hearing the stories of how women connect here is really awesome—it can change the headspace for someone who’s struggling,” she says. “As nurses, we try to support them in every way we can, from offering resources like physical therapy or nutrition programs to just being there to listen.”

Soffe reminds us that, while breast cancer treatment can be life-changing, having a supportive network can make all the difference. “You see it in the faces of the patients we care for—fear, courage, sadness, hope, all at once,” she says. “For me, just being present and being there for each woman is what it’s all about.”

At Create Amor, we believe in small, meaningful gestures that show support. Create Amor honor Breast Cancer Awareness with a special pink drawstring on our scrub pants, all in shades that represent strength, calm, and solidarity: Navy, Ceil, and Caribbean Blue. They’re a simple reminder that no one faces this journey alone.

Any day of the month, let’s go a little further to show our support. Wear your pink, reach out to someone you know who’s been impacted by breast cancer, and remember that kindness and encouragement can mean the world. Soffe leaves us with this reminder: “If and when you have the opportunity to know or interact with a breast cancer patient, please be so kind and supportive.”

Let’s keep this real and let’s keep it together. We’re all stronger when we support each other.