2015 Creative Cups

Sharon Woodward

Charms for a Cure, Breast Cancer Warrior

My mother is a breast cancer survivor for the past ten years and I am a survivor for the past year. As an artist I wanted to give back in the best way I know…by creating a bra that would provide funds to help other women.

Breast cancer affects all women regardless of color, culture or religion. I decided to design a bra that uses charms from a broad range of cultures to reflect our common wish to defeat breast cancer. These charms are used as symbols for luck, protection, prosperity, encouragement, best wishes and much love.

There are angels, fairies, goddesses, a Buddha, and a kokopelli to act as guardians. There is an evil eye and hansa hands for protection. There are trees of life, celestial suns and lotus blossoms to symbolize our connection to the earth. There are healing hands, a yoga woman meditating, and words such as “breathe,” “love much,” and “laugh often” to symbolize serenity and remind us to take care of ourselves.

I was fortunate to have the loving support of family and friends as well as caring support from a breast cancer center and organizations here in Michigan. My wish is that all women who are diagnosed with breast cancer have access to the support they need to help them with questions and resources.

Much love to all the warriors out there! We can defeat breast cancer!