Emma's Journey as a Breast Cancer Survivor and Advocate for Know Your Lemons
Emma, now 33, was only 31 years old when she began her breast cancer journey. After taking a shower she discovered a small lump above her right breast while applying lotion. She initially thought it was nothing serious, thinking it was just another thing with her body that had changed after giving birth to and breastfeeding her three young children. However, her intuition urged her to visit her family doctor to confirm it was nothing.
This decision saved her life. After undergoing a mammogram and biopsy, Emma received the shocking news that the lump was actually triple positive breast cancer. Before this diagnosis, her knowledge of breast cancer was minimal. She didn't know the importance of regular self-examinations, the 12 signs of breast cancer, or even what 'Know Your Lemons' meant.
The Power of Education: Know Your Lemons
The Know Your Lemons campaign has been a significant source of inspiration for Emma. The initiative's emphasis on education for early detection is what drove her to get involved. The concept of making the 12 Signs of Breast Cancer as recognizable as the food group wheel is brilliant and vital. “People are taught about nutrition and exercise from a young age, but rarely are they educated about breast health and the importance of self-examinations,” says Emma.
Emma's Mission: Promoting Breast Health Educaiton for Early Detection
Emma became involved with Know Your Lemons because she believes in the power of education to make a difference. She now encourages women to check themselves regularly so they can understand what their normal is, to understand what they are looking for, and to know the 12 signs of breast cancer. Sharing this knowledge is crucial; it can save lives by promoting early detection.
Emma also empowers women to educate the men in their lives. Men can play a supportive role by encouraging their partners, family members, and friends to perform self-exams and to get their regular mammograms. Men must be invited to become allies because it takes a village to foster a community that prioritizes breast health and supports early detection efforts. Because Know Your Lemons uses lemons to educate, instead of breasts, it makes it SO much easier to talk to people about breast health, regardless of gender.
Emma urges everyone: check yourself, know your normal, know what you're looking for, and Know Your Lemons. Let's work together to promote awareness and early detection so we can save more lives from breast cancer.
Fun Facts about Emma
I expertly parent my three young children at home, nurturing their creativity and individuality. When they are at school, I spend my days with my 94-year-old grandmother, who may be my best friend. She shares stories about her life in Italy, her immigration to Canada, and the rich folklore passed down through generations. I am currently working on a book that compiles her recipes, stories, and wisdom, preserving these invaluable pieces of our heritage that are often undocumented in our culture.
I have a variety of interests that shape my life, including gardening, raising butterflies, riding motorcycles, singing karaoke, playing Italian cards with my Nonna, and cooking traditional Italian recipes from my grandmother. My proudest moments include moving out at 18 to pursue art and writing in downtown Toronto, marrying a Spaniard at 23, moving to a small island off Morocco, learning Spanish, and having my first child. We returned to Canada in 2016 to grow our family further. Despite being a strong swimmer and loving the ocean, I’ve never mastered diving and remain a belly flopper.
Disclaimer: Know Your Lemons deeply values and respects the experiences and stories shared by breast cancer patients. The advice, statements, or facts presented in these narratives may not necessarily align with medical expertise or be universally applicable to every individual’s situation. Breast cancer is a complex and highly individualized medical condition, and while these stories offer valuable insights and emotional support, they should not substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance and decision-making regarding breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and management. Know Your Lemons encourages a collaborative approach between patients, caregivers, and medical professionals to ensure the best possible care and outcomes for those affected by breast cancer.
