What is a Woman?

Does a breast cancer diagnosis change who you are?

What is a Woman?


Only a pebble in sacred land.
Yet a major part of who I am.
Now an enemy per mammogram.
Easy fix, a simple medical program.

In my rational mind, I know.
There is more to me, I must let go.
This is a matter of life and death.
Why can’t I relax and take a breath?

It is a quickie go, or so they say.
Remove the obstacle and radiate.
Why does it feel so evasive?
An army planning an invasion.

Maybe I won’t be the same.
No more nude sex, sans shame.
Breasts are essential equipment.
Lovers admire, give babies nourishment.

Life is deep valleys and high mountains.
We travel it, danger always surrounds us.
Courage is a necessary wing woman.
Fears be gone! Cancer won’t be won!


By Kathie Stehr
October 10, 2020
20 lines
Breast Cancer Awareness