There used to be a time when breast cancer was hardly treatable, but now we live in a world that not only cures it, but provides substitute breasts for those who are forced to remove theirs.
This is basically what Evelyn Hoe does from the goodness of her heart. Based on a report by the Star Online, Evelyn knits breast prostheses (or in slang, knockers) for women that have undergone a mastectomy (surgery to remove a breast or both due to cancer tissues) or anything that is close in nature.
Many that have cancer are usually concerned about what their body would look like after going through a mastectomy, which is why they look to reconstructive surgery and breast prostheses. Traditionally breasts prostheses are made from silicone. However, to many who can’t afford it or dislike it, they could be rather pricey, heavy and uncomfortable. In fact, silicone breasts prostheses can cost up to RM1,000 (including a mastectomy bra set).
Talk about an expensive rack.
This varies greatly from knitted ones because they are made from cotton and acrylic or polyester yarn, which makes it rather soft and light, not to mention, Evelyn’s are completely FREE. According to Evelyn, the knitted yarn is stuffed with cotton wool to resemble breasts and when it is placed inside a bra, they take the shape of an actual breast. She also adds in polyfibre for extra volume and pebbles/marbles to make them slightly heavy for that real feel.
She has been knitting for over fifty years but she began her volunteering two years ago at the Knitted Knockers Support Foundation (KKSF), an NGO in Washington that makes and gives out free knitted breast prostheses to those in need. She takes about a half hour to complete one and creates different bra sizes from from A to DD and even E. She is the only volunteer in Malaysia and has since given away 300 yarn breast prostheses to breast cancer patients.
“This is my small contribution to help women who had a mastectomy or lumpectomy. And I feel happy doing it for women who need them, ” she said.
One breast cancer survivor has been using Evelyn’s knitted knockers for 3 years and she claims them to be better than silicone ones. This is what she said.
“Though it’s knitted, these handmade items look real and awesome. Knitted knockers are easy to use, and adjustable. It’s light and comfortable. It fits perfectly into my non-wired bras, ”
Based on the feedback she has gotten, there is with no doubt just how thankful breast cancer patients are toward her generosity. So, kudos to her and here’s to following her footsteps in giving back to society!
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