René Norman's Breast Cancer Journey

Happy New Year of 2024! As I celebrate my new body, new hair, and new life, I cannot help but reflect on the potency of this past year. How do I thank you who helped me live... survive and thrive?

I really haven't found the words to express the magnitude of my gratitude. So, I will just reflect: I climbed a mountain in 2023, a mountain called cancer. Learned a HECK of a LOT, to say the least; about boundaries, and navigating the medical system, how to use my voice and be my own advocate, how to get into the receptive mode and LET IN THE LOVE! And wow, there was a LOT of love to let in! There were sooo many invaluable lessons and opportunities to stretch and grow my Being in all the ways... inside and out. Yes, I surrendered some physical parts along the way, but I gained, OH, so much more! Standing at the top of this mountain, I am enjoying the view of success, resilience, humanity, love. And I owe so much to you. Truly, I could not have done it without you. Your generosity, love and support allowed me to heal WITHOUT the financial stress... and that has such a powerful effect on healing. For me, it was everything.

I am here, stronger and brighter than ever, complete with treatment. I received the best result ever, "complete pathological response," and my doctors and I are thrilled!

Now, it is my time to shine and give back. I love and appreciate you all and am eternally grateful for your generosity and love.

May we all feel Peace + Joy.

-René XO

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Many of us in the Ojai community and beyond know beloved artist René Norman was diagnosed with non-invasive breast cancer in late 2019. Due to the pandemic, her mastectomy was postponed, and she went on a dedicated self-healing journey. Multiple MRIs over the past two-and-a-half years showed clear scans, and her medical team believed she was in the clear.

Unfortunately, recent testing shows the cancer is back - and is now invasive and aggressive. Treatment will begin right away. René will be undergoing extensive chemo to shrink the cancer, followed by a mastectomy and possibly more treatments. The good news is that the prognosis for complete recovery following this protocol is excellent.

As a massage therapist and potter, René relies on her hands and arms for her livelihood. After surgery, she will be unable to work for up to a year.

As an artist and body worker, René has cared for so many of us in the Ojai community - body and soul. Now we can reciprocate with our love and care. With no immediate family in the area, René urgently needs the support of her friends to alleviate financial burdens, including out-of-pocket medical expenses, post-surgery care, transport to weekly chemo treatments, lost income, and food.

Please remember that no donation is too small, and all contributions are greatly appreciated. If you are unable to donate, please continue to share René's story via your social media, emails etc.

René would like to express her heartfelt appreciation for the outpouring of love and support from those in her beloved Ojai Valley, Los Angeles, and beyond.