Breast Cancer Confidence Project

Campaign cover image for Breast Cancer Confidence Project

$23,452

117% of $20,000 goal

159 Supporters

Michaela Raes

Fundraiser since Oct 2023

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$425

6 supporters

42% of $1,000 goal

Michaela Raes' Story

When I was diagnosed with breast cancer at the young age of 28, it was a shock. I was young, I was healthy, and I had no family history of the disease - breast cancer wasn't even a possibility that had crossed my mind. Then, the unthinkable happened. I found a lump (or my cat found a lump, rather) - and the panic began to set in. I was diagnosed less than a month later with stage II breast cancer. Because the tumor was highly aggressive and rapidly dividing, a double mastectomy was recommended. Along with the diagnosis came a surge of insecurity and fears. Questions flooded my mind: "What will I look like? Will I ever feel confident or sexy again? Will breast cancer prevent me from loving my body?" These doubts consumed me, but I was determined to find a way to overcome them. I wanted to have a way to remember my natural-born body before treatment began, so I decided to have a boudoir photoshoot. As my treatment progressed, I experienced a profound shift in my mindset. I began to appreciate the strength and resilience of my body. Despite the major surgeries, the potent chemicals coursing through my veins, and the loss of my hair, my body showed up for me every single day. It carried me through the darkest moments and reminded me of the beauty that lies within. To aid in my emotional healing and acceptance of the changes in my body, I continued to have boudoir portraits taken at major milestones during and after treatment. These portraits became a testament to my journey and a celebration of the strength that breast cancer survivors possess. Once the shock and intensity of my experience subsided, I felt compelled to share my story and approach with other women who might benefit from these experiences. The Breast Cancer Confidence Project was born out of this idea, and has two primary aims: to show newly diagnosed individuals that they do not need to fear what the future holds for their bodies, and to help women who are experiencing these body image challenges by providing them with opportunities to have their own boudoir portraits taken. Now, I invite you to join me in spreading the message of self-love, acceptance, and confidence. Together, we can empower those affected by breast cancer to embrace their bodies and find beauty in every inch and ounce. Your support will enable us to provide boudoir photoshoots, empowerment programming, and resources to those in need. By donating to the Breast Cancer Confidence Project, you can make a difference in the lives of breast cancer survivors. Let us stand together, united in our mission to inspire confidence and celebrate the strength of the human body.

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HWS Swimming & Dive Team

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$3,298

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The Confidence Project Team

2 members

$852

raised of $5,000 goal

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Breast Cancer Confidence Project

A 501(c)(3) Public Charity

EIN 88-4117293

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