“In July of 2010, at age 34, I was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer which entailed, among things, a double mastectomy, four months of chemotherapy, six weeks of radiation five days a week and a nice preview of menopause. I just completed all of my treatments in March and continue my journey with breast cancer. I am currently in the process of making the decision to have my ovaries and fallopian tubes removed due to the high statistics of ovarian cancer with the BRCA2 gene mutation.”
A downtown socialite in the queer nightlife scene, Cougar invites all of New York City (and beyond) to share her personal experience with breast cancer with pictures from her battle and the release of her book Champion. Since the beginning of her diagnosis, Cougar has been documenting her physical transformation through the different stages of treatment in order to provide a visual understanding that will reach out to both the cancerous and non-cancerous community. In collaboration with Bryce Ward, Cougar’s photographs will be on display at Bryce Ward’s Studio in NYC from 6 until 10 pm along with raffle prizes and prints for sale to raise money for the upcoming book Champion.
The photos in Champion portray Cougar as a champion boxer through radiation and her double mastectomy in hopes of positively educating women about the real battle of breast cancer instead of just the stereotypical images of reconstructive surgery. Come support an amazing cause tonight and amazing woman as she battles, like a champion, breast cancer with an awesome attitude!
Bryce Ward Studio
22 East 17th Street, 11th Floor Suite 1101
New York City
[Images via Girlie Action Media]
