Two months ago, I made the decision to share with my social media followers the challenges I had been facing. Alongside preparing for the removal of my breast implants due to persistent pain and various symptoms, I discovered a lump that led to a breast cancer recurrence in my chest wall. After a series of appointments and scans, I received the difficult news of my second breast cancer diagnosis in four years.
I felt compelled to share my experience because keeping it hidden was emotionally draining. I believe in transforming personal struggles into advocacy and education, with the hope of helping others navigate their own journeys. As I opened up about my breast cancer diagnosis on social media, I experienced a surge of new followers eager to support me—until I began discussing the essential topic of anti-racism.
Initially, my posts revolved around updates on my surgeries and recovery, as well as my ongoing advocacy for self-exams. Many new followers connected with me, sharing their own cancer experiences and offering encouragement. However, when I shifted focus to anti-racism, I noticed a decline in my follower count, losing dozens and then hundreds. It seemed that while my cancer journey garnered sympathy and support, conversations about racism made some followers uncomfortable enough to leave.
I’ve received messages instructing me on what I should share. Some followers accused me of being “racist against white people,” failing to understand that such a concept is nonsensical. They suggested I keep my content focused on health, seemingly unaware that anti-racism transcends politics and is fundamentally a moral issue affecting all aspects of life.
It appears my journey through cancer is deemed more palatable and inspiring than addressing the societal challenges faced by my children and others due to systemic racism. When I pointed out the unfollows, some responded with “good riddance,” which initially felt justified. However, it distressed me to realize that their discomfort with discussions on race outweighed their concern for injustices faced by marginalized communities.
If they’re unwilling to engage with a voice like mine, a white woman with privilege, it’s likely they aren’t listening to BIPOC advocates either. This avoidance perpetuates harmful beliefs and actions that sustain systemic racism. It’s disheartening that they prefer my health struggles over confronting the realities of racial inequity.
Despite this backlash, I remain committed to discussing anti-racism, regardless of my follower count. My goal is to provide valuable information that benefits others. I have always prioritized sharing knowledge over personal popularity. It’s disheartening to think that my children’s lives and the pursuit of equity matter less than my health updates and pink ribbons.
Ignoring the struggles faced by people of color only serves to uphold systems of supremacy. Ignorance is not a benign state; it inflicts real harm on marginalized communities. The responsibility to dismantle these oppressive systems lies with every individual, particularly those who hold privilege. Choosing to ignore these conversations in favor of distractions will not foster a more equitable society.
To those who unfollowed, I acknowledge your departure, but I don’t require your presence in my life. What troubles me is the reasoning behind your decision. I hope one day you recognize the importance of valuing every life equally.
For more insights on navigating similar journeys and advocating for equity, check out our other post here. For expert guidance on fertility, visit Make A Mom, and for comprehensive information on treating infertility, refer to ACOG.
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Summary:
The author shares her experience of gaining followers through her breast cancer announcement, only to lose many when she addressed anti-racism. She reflects on the discomfort some followers have with discussions on race and emphasizes the importance of advocating for all marginalized communities, regardless of personal consequences.