CELESTE TUVIERA, hairdresser, owner of Celeste Tuviera Hair Studio at The Peninsula Manila
The toughest challenge was opening up and talking about my experience, as I’m a very private person. It took a lot of courage to address the ‘elephant in the room’ and share what I was going through. However, I realized that by talking about it, not only was I helping myself heal, but I was also encouraging others to seek help and break the silence. I learned to be resilient by embracing vulnerability and leaning on my support system. Each conversation became a step toward healing and strength. By talking about it and taking action, you’re not just helping yourself, you’re giving yourself the best chance at living a fuller, healthier life. I found strength in being proactive, and it allowed me to move forward with resilience. I would encourage them to talk to someone they trust, start small, and remember that they don’t have to go through it alone.
I am most grateful to my support system, especially my family and my closest friends. Their unwavering love, encouragement, and strength gave me hope when I needed it most. My health care team also played a crucial role, providing not just medical care but emotional support. Above all, I am thankful for my faith, which grounded me throughout the journey and reminded me that I was never truly alone in facing the challenges.
#ICSat25
#UnitedByUnique
#SurvivorStories
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- CELESTE TUVIERA, hairdresser, owner of Celeste Tuviera Hair Studio at The Peninsula Manila
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- “The earlier you face it, the more control you have over the situation.”
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- CELESTE TUVIERA, hairdresser, owner of Celeste Tuviera Hair Studio at The Peninsula Manila
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- Learn about breast cancer signs and symptoms: https://www.icanservefoundation.org/about-breast-cancer/
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- Download the breast cancer patient manual: https://www.icanservefoundation.org/patients-manual/
Photos by: Patrick Uy, Necy Juat, Armand Apuya
Icons of Hope is a social media campaign that features cancer survivors who share their own stories, learnings and the lives they now live. It is part of ICANSEVE Foundation’s 25th anniversary celebration in collaboration with Camera Club of the Philippines. With thanks to Owen Santos and Zonia Bandoy.