From Scars to Strength:

Diana’s Story of Healing, Hope, and Wholeness

At Perky, we get to witness some of the most powerful transformations — not just physical, but emotional. Every survivor who walks through our doors carries a story of courage, vulnerability, and strength that deserves to be seen and celebrated.

Today, we’re honored to share Diana’s story — a mom of three whose journey through breast cancer is a testament to resilience, faith, and the power of feeling whole again.

In her own words, this is Diana’s story.

From Diagnosis to Determination

Hi, my name is Diana. I’m 34 years old, a mom of three little ones, and a breast cancer survivor. I’m here to share my very personal and powerful journey — one that took me from diagnosis to mastectomy, reconstruction, and finally, recovery.

I’ll never forget the day I got my diagnosis: March 8, 2024 — International Women’s Day.
Ironic, right? A day meant to celebrate women, strength, and beauty… and I was being told I had breast cancer. That moment changed everything.

But, I want to tell you how I got through it — and how I found hope, healing, and even empowerment along the way.

Being told you have breast cancer is one of the hardest moments in a woman’s life. Everything changes in an instant. I was scared, overwhelmed, and unsure of what the future would look like.

But I wasn’t alone. My parents, my kids, and my faith became my greatest sources of strength. Their love gave me the courage to fight.

Finding the Right Team

My journey began with the incredible care of my surgeon, Dr. Alfredo Santillan at Texas Oncology, who performed my mastectomy. I truly believe God sent him to save my life. His patience with my fears and the gentle way he explained every detail meant the world to me. I will always be grateful for his compassion and skill.

Next came reconstruction, and I was blessed once again — this time with PRMA Plastic Surgery. From the moment I walked through their doors, I felt seen, heard, and cared for.

Dr. Ledoux was amazing — so kind, so patient, and so skilled. Every question, every fear, he met with understanding and reassurance. My nurse was just as incredible — sweet, gentle, and always there when I needed her. I call them my angels.

They held my hand, literally and emotionally, through my toughest days.

Mastectomy: More Than a Medical Procedure

A mastectomy isn’t just a medical procedure — it’s a transformation, both physically and emotionally. It’s not an easy decision, but for many of us, it’s a life-saving one.

The recovery process is tough. There are physical challenges, emotional ups and downs, and moments when you question your strength. But I want women reading this to know: you are strong. You will get through it.

And when you do, you’ll look in the mirror and see not just scars — but survival, courage, and beauty.

If you’re facing this battle, please know you’re not alone. Ask questions. Find a care team that listens. And remember — your body is only part of your story. Your spirit, resilience, and light are what truly define you.

The Final Step: Feeling Whole Again

After my reconstruction, I decided to get 3D nipple tattoos — and honestly, it was the cherry on top of my healing journey.

I had no idea this even existed until I found Perky. When I met Courtney and Crystal, they melted my heart. Their kindness, artistry, and the way they made me feel seen and beautiful was unlike anything else.

They cared about something most people never think about — but it means so much to us. When I got my nipple tattoos, I finally felt complete.

It was like the final piece of myself had been returned after everything I’d lost. It gave me back something not just physical, but emotional.

Thank you, PRMA and Perky, for giving me more than reconstruction — for giving me confidence, hope, and wholeness.

“Nipple tattoos aren’t about vanity. They’re about reclaiming what we gave up to survive.They’re about wholeness, confidence, and honoring everything our bodies have been through.”

Standing in My Power

I was invited by Perky to participate in a photoshoot wearing an AnaOno mesh garment to help raise awareness for their collaborative programs with Pink Warrior Advocates.

Standing in front of the camera wearing the AnaOno mesh babydoll was one of the most empowering moments of my journey. Why? Because I had the opportunity to show the world that the best way to love your life is to love yourself completely.

Every scar, every imperfection, every mark tells a story — a story of strength, fight, and survival. We are not broken. We are whole.

By embracing our bodies as they are, we give permission for other women to do the same. If my story helps even one woman feel seen, strong, and supported — then every tear, every fear, and every step of healing had a purpose.

Let’s keep showing up for one another with love, honesty, and hope. It’s okay to be scared. It’s okay to cry. But please remember — you are stronger than you think. Surround yourself with a care team that truly sees you.
Advocate for your body, your emotions, and your future. This journey isn’t just about survival.
It’s about reclaiming your life, your confidence, and your joy.

To every warrior out there: I’m proud of you.
You are brave, beautiful, and stronger than you know. There is life, beauty, and so much light on the other side.

About the Programs

The Perky Restoration Program:
A scholarship-based initiative that provides free 3D areola/nipple tattoos to local breast cancer survivors who can’t afford them. This program restores confidence and a sense of completion after mastectomy or breast reconstruction — because everyone deserves to feel whole again. Click here to learn more.

The Bra Assistance Program:
Pink Warrior Advocates and AnaOno offer this program to help provide post-surgery bras and lingerie to survivors in need. As a proud sponsor, Perky helps ensure more women receive the comfort, dignity, and support they deserve during recovery — one bra at a time. Click here to learn more.