After Breast Cancer

Alicia Vianga owns a lingerie boutique in Toronto and after doing many bra fittings she realized the need for post mastectomy bras in women who have been affected by breast cancer. She started the non-profit organization After Breast Cancer (ABC) to contribute to women’s quality of life after their breast removal surgery.

“After Breast Cancer is a program that helps women with limited financial resources and no insurance to provide bras and prosthesis to them at no cost,” said Vianga.

ABC has recently partnered with Gilda’s Club of Greater Toronto, a support community for anyone touched by cancer.

“Learning how to fit yourself, what looks good on your body,” said program director of Gilda’s Club Shira Moalem. “That’s actually giving the power back to the woman herself and saying, you have the ability to actually decide what looks good which is a lot of times taken away with a breast cancer diagnosis.”

One member of Gilda’s Club, Julie Ugar, is benefiting from ABC’s help. Due to radiation treatments her breast area became sensitive, but after receiving her new bras the discomfort has gone away.

“I feel fantastic!,” said Ugar. “It feels so much better to have a nice bra that works well and that feels comfortable.”

Once a month, Vianga and her team of volunteers conduct not only bra fittings but educational workshops for its members.

“For women to be vulnerable in that way after a breast cancer diagnosis, for them to feel comfortable exposing their scars,” said Moalem. “They need someone like Alicia to actually be there for them.”

This organization is helping women gain confidence after a drastic physical change.

“The After Breast Cancer program is so important for people like me,” said Ugar. “It makes you feel like people care about what you’ve been through.”