In this episode of Conversations That Heal, I sit down with breast cancer survivor, author, speaker, and advocate Cynthia Smalls for a powerful conversation about surviving breast cancer, learning to love your changing body, advocating for yourself, and finding purpose after diagnosis.

Cynthia shares how a 3D mammogram in 2016 helped detect an aggressive form of breast cancer early and how her own experience revealed a lack of breast cancer resources and representation specifically for Black women. That realization eventually led her to create Melanin & Pink Ribbons, a platform dedicated to providing culturally relevant education, encouragement, and support for Black women fighting and surviving breast cancer.

We talk honestly about the parts of survivorship that aren't always discussed—the grief that can accompany changes to your body, learning to look at yourself differently, and understanding that healing doesn't always happen in a straight line. Cynthia shares how mirrors, journaling, affirmations, community, and intentional self-love became part of her healing journey.

We also discuss the importance of advocacy, taking someone you trust to medical appointments, asking questions, educating yourself instead of allowing fear to have the final word, and creating resources where representation matters.

Cynthia also shares the books and resources she has created for breast cancer fighters, survivors, and their families.

We close our conversation in prayer for those currently fighting breast cancer, survivors continuing to heal, and the families and communities walking alongside them.

Connect with Cynthia Smalls:

Founder, Author & Speaker Melanin & Pink Ribbons Wellness Company LLC

Email: cynthiasmalls@melaninpinkribbons.com

Blog: melaninpinkribbons.com

Instagram: @MelaninPinkRibbons

Books & Resources:

Push the Button https://a.co/d/3qWd2WN

Positive Affirmation Journal for Breast Cancer Fighters & Survivors https://a.co/d/6ePxTOl

Love, Strength & Crayons https://a.co/d/0fKJ0r6b

The Self Love Journal https://a.co/d/00z3Ofuj

🎙️ Conversations That Heal — Healing One Conversation at a Time.