To The Mothers Who Fought: The Fight Against Breast Cancer Is a Personal One For Us
I lost my mother at the age of 19 to breast cancer.
She was first diagnosed in her early thirties — when she had a seven-year-old (me), a three-year-old, and a two-year-old. Doctors told her she had only a ten percent chance to live. I can’t imagine what went through her mind as a young mother hearing those words. But she said firmly, “Not now. I’m not ready to leave my babies yet.”
And she fought. For nearly twelve years.
The Reality of Where Breast Cancer Spreads
Breast cancer is not just confined to the breast, it can spread to the lymph nodes, bones, lungs, liver and even the brain. I remember my mother’s treatments, her pain and how each new test brought fresh waves of fear.
But through every round of chemotherapy and radiation, she still found energy to make us home-cooked meals, pack our lunches and pick us up from school. Even when she could barely stand, she made sure our lives still had warmth.
The Little Things That Stay Forever
My mother had a way of finding light even in the darkest moments.
Every morning, she would pick a single jasmine flower from our garden and tuck it into my pocket before school. Its scent would carry me through the day, a small, fragrant reminder of her love.
Every night, she’d come into our room to tell us how much she loved us. That was her legacy: boundless love, even as her body weakened. She didn’t get to see our milestones — our birthdays, graduations, weddings, or her grandchildren. But everything I create through taïla carries her spirit, her belief that nature, love and healing are deeply connected.
Breast Cancer Awareness for Young Women
When my mother was diagnosed, awareness was limited. There wasn’t enough education around where breast cancer lumps are found or what early symptoms to look for.
Breast cancer lumps can appear anywhere in the breast tissue, not just near the nipple and sometimes extend into the underarm area. They may feel hard, painless and uneven, or sometimes tender and subtle.
Knowing your body, noticing even small changes can save your life.
Creating space to talk about breast health with friends and family is just as important as any screening.
Today, I share this story because awareness isn’t just a campaign; it’s a conversation that could change someone’s life.
Breast Cancer Screening for Young Women
My mother’s diagnosis came without any family history of breast cancer. It felt like an ambush. How could something so devastating appear out of nowhere?
Now, both my sister and I are considered high-risk.
Here’s the reality: one in every 251 women aged 30 today will be diagnosed with breast cancer within the next ten years. For young women, breast cancer screening can be more complicated. Mammograms are often not covered under 40 and dense breast tissue can make early detection difficult.
That’s why self-breast exams are crucial. Know what your normal feels like. Check monthly, notice any changes and don’t hesitate to ask your doctor about alternative screenings like ultrasounds or MRIs if something feels off.
At taïla, we believe caring for yourself is sacred. Checking in with your body, not just your skin is a powerful act of love and awareness.
Breast Cancer Support for Young Women
Losing my mother changed everything about how I see care, healing and womanhood.
Support matters — especially for young women who often face this diagnosis while raising families, building careers and just beginning their adult lives.
That’s why this month, taïla will donate 15% of all retail sales to the Young Survival Coalition, a nonprofit dedicated to breast cancer support for young women.
They create safe, compassionate spaces where women can ask questions, find information and draw strength from shared stories.
If you or someone you know has been affected by breast cancer, reach out — share your story. None of us should walk through this alone.
The Legacy of Love and Awareness
My mother was fearless, strong and endlessly kind. A Registered Nurse who left India with $7 in her pocket, building a life from pure willpower and heart.
She taught me that caring for others begins with caring for yourself.
Her journey and the loss that shaped mine, are why taïla exists: to honor the intelligence of nature, the strength of women and the quiet courage it takes to heal.
Breast cancer awareness isn’t only about statistics. It’s about remembering the people behind them.
So, take the time to listen to your body, support another woman’s journey and never underestimate the power of awareness. Because sometimes, awareness is love in action.
💗 Learn more about breast cancer awareness for young women and discover how your purchase this month supports survivors through the Young Survival Coalition →
