Breast Cancer Survivor Reminds Moms to Never Be Ashamed of a Scar

Every scar tells a story.

Bo Smith’s scar tells one of strength and love. Like many moms, Smith cherishes the intimate moments where she gets to breastfeed her newborn. But as a new mom and cancer survivor, she has a deep appreciation for just how sacred these moments are with her son.

Smith captured this happiness in a powerful photo she shared on Facebook, where she proudly exposes her mastectomy scar.

“‘Never be ashamed of a scar. It simply means you were stronger than whatever tried to hurt you. I can’t begin to explain how this feels everyday to be able to breastfeed my son after losing one breast to cancer and being told I may not ever have this sweet boy in my arms,” she says in the post.

“I am not ashamed of this body,” she adds. “This is what continues to remind me of how lucky I am to be here today.”

The post, which has received more than 16,000 likes, 1,000 comments and 5,000 shares, has inspired others to share words of encouragement.

“This is truly inspirational and incredibly beautiful. Thank you for sharing and congratulations on your gorgeous little bundle of joy,” one comment reads.

“You are amazing. You’re a warrior. This picture brightened my entire day. You keep being the very best mama,” says another.

Some have used Smith’s candid post as an opportunity to share the story behind their own scars.

“Definitely a warrior. Such a beautiful picture and no way should you be ashamed. From one warrior of almost 10 years, my baby girl saved my life,” says one mom. “During nursing she bit my breast and it ended up being stage 4 metastatic breast cancer from the get-go. She’s now 12 and beautiful.”

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