Dragonfly

Miami

Twist on Cancer: Cancer taught me that life is much more fragile than I ever imagined. It also taught me that many of the things that once stole my peace of mind simply aren't worth carrying. I realized that life is better lived more slowly—with intention, gratitude and compassion for ourselves. One of the most unexpected things I learned is that I was enough all along. I became braver. I learned to look people in the eyes, speak confidently, communicate my needs, express my feelings and trust my own voice. Most important, my faith deepened. I believe God gave me a second chance—not just to survive but to truly live, love myself and do meaningful things. The practices that helped me most were often the simplest: taking deep breaths, writing, lying on the grass, running, listening to nature, exercising, smiling, embracing silence and reading authors like Mel Robbins, James Clear, Robin Sharma and Ismael Cala. They reminded me to stay present instead of living in fear. If I could share one message with others, it would be this: Cancer can change your body, but it can also transform your perspective. Protect your peace, love yourself without conditions and never underestimate the healing power of hope, faith and one small step at a time.

Lake Mary

Artist Statement: Sissi learned to live life more slowly after her experience with cancer. She takes more time for herself and looks at life like she's been given a second chance. This is why I made the bra, and part of it is ripping away to represent the second chance she was given. I used living elements like moss and plants to bring life to this piece. One side has air plants to reflect the fact that she is breathing slowly and intentionally. The other side, where the cancer was, features orchids, which are flowers you have to cut down so they can regrow better, and that represents her recovery and rebirth and the beauty that comes from that. The bra as a whole encapsulates the experience both past and looking to the future as she lives life to its fullest. On the back of the bra is a quote from Sissi that really impressed me: "Life is better lived slowly."