Read the story of Renate, breast cancer survivor

Cancer is a horrifying ordeal and really puts you to the test. But it also awakened my inner power. I had expected to feel less feminine with each step, but I actually learned: my beauty is not in my hair or my breasts; it’s in my strength! From day one I’ve tried to put a positive spin on the experience. Sharing my journey on social media, connecting with women all over the world, was very much part of that. But also the way I kept expressing my femininity in my looks. The first time I went outside with a shaved head, for example, I wore my reddest lipstick and a gorgeous long dress. And I refused to wear the ugly ‘chemo caps’ they suggested to me at the hospital. I tapped into my creativity – another ‘gift’ from cancer – borrowed my mom’s sewing machine and started making beautiful, comfortable turbans and headbands. Things took off from there, and now I have my own brand! The name says it all: The Head Up Club. Looking back, I can honestly say that I wouldn’t have wanted to miss this journey of growth and self-discovery, as painful as it has been at times. My hair is quite long again, and I just sent a message to my hairdresser: “Help! Please take it all off!” I miss my GI Jane power cut. Who would have thought that?”