Tirzah Cooper’s journey with breast cancer began subtly in August 2021 with a lump she discovered at the top of her breast. Working for a plastic surgeon at the time, she was quickly sent for an ultrasound, which indicated a benign tumor. Reassured, she followed medical advice and repeated the ultrasound six months later, receiving the same benign diagnosis. Despite these assurances, Tirzah felt an unease, a nagging suspicion that something was amiss with her body. Her intuition proved tragically correct as the lump continued to grow, becoming increasingly noticeable even to others. By early 2022, it had doubled in size, visibly protruding through her skin. A subsequent ultrasound and biopsy finally revealed the devastating truth: Tirzah had breast cancer.
The diagnosis, specifically ER-positive, PR-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer, meant that the tumor was fueled by hormones like estrogen and progesterone. This marked the beginning of a grueling treatment regimen. Tirzah embarked on a five-month course of neo-adjuvant chemotherapy, enduring four rounds of AC and 12 rounds of Taxol. While she described this period as “hell,” she maintained a determined spirit, constantly reaffirming her ability to overcome the ordeal. Simultaneously, she began documenting her journey on TikTok, using the platform to connect with others battling cancer, sharing her experiences, and encouraging resilience. Her aim was to raise awareness about breast cancer and empower fellow survivors to embrace life beyond the diagnosis.
Tirzah’s treatment continued with a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery, leaving her with implants but no remaining breast tissue. This physical alteration was a profound change, a constant reminder of the battle she had fought and the lasting impact of the disease. Beyond the physical scars, Tirzah faced a new reality of long-term side effects, often overlooked in discussions about cancer recovery. The hormone-suppressing therapy plunged her into early menopause at the age of 36, accompanied by persistent hip and joint pain, particularly aggravated during the winter months. The hormone suppressants themselves proved debilitating, leading her to eventually discontinue the therapy, prioritizing her quality of life over the potential risks. This decision, while difficult, reflected her determination to live fully as a mother of two, rather than simply survive.
One of the most emotionally challenging aspects of Tirzah’s journey was the loss of her hair. As a self-proclaimed “girly girl” who enjoyed expressing herself through fashion and beauty, the prospect of losing her long, dark hair was devastating. However, instead of succumbing to despair, Tirzah embraced the change, experimenting with wigs and even making a lighthearted event of trying on different styles with her daughter. When her hair began to fall out in clumps, she bravely took control, buzzing her head with the support of her fiancé, now husband. Surprisingly, she found a sense of empowerment in her baldness. The gradual regrowth of her hair, initially thin and fluffy, became a symbol of small victories, a tangible sign of her resilience and recovery.
The physical challenges persisted even after the completion of treatment. Tirzah’s body was irrevocably changed, limiting her ability to engage in activities like push-ups or heavy lifting. She adapted by incorporating gentler forms of exercise, such as light squats and Yin yoga, mindful of her physical limitations. Through her TikTok platform, she continued to share her experiences, emphasizing the emotional toll of cancer and the importance of addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of recovery. She aimed to provide a realistic portrayal of life after cancer, emphasizing that it’s not a simple return to normal, but a journey of adaptation and acceptance.
Tirzah’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. She transformed her personal battle with cancer into a platform for advocacy and awareness. She acknowledged the profound and permanent changes the disease brought to her life but refused to let those changes define her. Instead, she embraced her new identity as a warrior, celebrating every small victory, from clear pathology reports to the regrowth of her hair. Her message is one of hope and empowerment, reminding others facing similar challenges that even in the darkest moments, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. She encourages survivors to grieve the loss of their former selves while simultaneously embracing their new, stronger selves, forged in the crucible of cancer.
