Breast cancer treatment does not end in the operating theatre. In reality, it can be the beginning of another difficult chapter. Durban North’s Angie Calo wants women to know that recovery deserves just as much care, support and attention.
There may be wounds to heal, movement to regain, strength to rebuild and a changed body to come to terms with. There can also be questions about what is safe to do, when to start exercising again and whether the discomfort they are experiencing is simply something they have to live with.
“Breast cancer doesn’t end when you leave the operating theatre,” she says. “This is the start of a new journey, and women deserve to feel supported throughout that journey.”
It is a message that sits at the heart of Angie’s work in health and wellness, where she has spent decades helping people take better care of themselves and recover from health challenges.
Her particular passion is the often-overlooked space between medical treatment and getting back to everyday life.
For a woman recovering from breast surgery, that can mean something as simple as regaining comfortable movement or rebuilding confidence in her body. It can mean understanding how to care for a wound, knowing when to seek advice or having someone explain what recovery might look like.
Angie believes that information can make a huge difference.
“The most important thing is that women communicate with their medical team,” she says. “Everyone’s recovery is different, and we need to understand where that person is in her healing journey.”
That is why she does not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach.
Some women may be ready to introduce gentle movement relatively soon, while others may still be dealing with stitches, wounds, pain or restrictions. The starting point should always be guided by the woman’s medical team and her own recovery.
“A doctor’s clearance gives us important information so that we can support them safely,” Angie says.
For Angie, movement is not about pushing women to get back to where they were as quickly as possible. It is about helping them gradually regain independence and confidence in what their bodies can do.
The same applies to the emotional side of recovery.
Breast cancer can change the way a woman sees herself. Surgery may leave physical reminders of what she has been through, while the fear and uncertainty surrounding a diagnosis can linger long after treatment.
Sometimes, simply being able to talk about those concerns and ask questions can be an important part of moving forward.
Angie’s approach is collaborative. She works within the care already being provided by doctors and other healthcare professionals, including occupational therapists, chiropractors and biokineticists. Her role is to complement that care rather than replace it.
“Women need to know their bodies, prioritise their health and ask questions,” she says.
That philosophy extends beyond breast cancer.
Angie’s experience in wound care, rehabilitation, movement and wellness has led her to explore complementary therapies, including ozone therapy. She believes there can be a place for complementary approaches alongside conventional medicine, provided they are considered responsibly and with appropriate professional guidance.
But she is quick to point out that no single therapy is the answer. Her focus is the person sitting in front of her.
“Wound care, nutrition and recovery are incredibly important,” she says. “My focus is always on supporting the patient as a whole.”
That bigger-picture approach is also behind Angie’s long-term dream of creating a wellness institute where people recovering from illness or medical procedures can access more comprehensive support.
For now, her message is one she hopes will reach women far beyond Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
She wants women to become comfortable with asking questions, understanding their bodies and taking an active role in their health rather than simply accepting that feeling uncomfortable, uncertain or frightened is part of the process.
Her journey as a Mrs South Africa Top 30 finalist has given her another platform to share that message and advocate for women’s health. While the title is exciting, Angie sees the opportunity to use the platform as being far more important than the crown itself.
Ultimately, she wants women to feel informed, supported and hopeful.
“ My goal is to create a space where patients can receive the support they need throughout recovery,” she says. “For me, this is about giving people hope, education and tools to move forward.”
And perhaps that is the part of breast cancer awareness Angie most wants us to remember. The operation may be over. Treatment may be finished. But the woman still has a road ahead of her.
She deserves support on that road too.
Details: Show your support for Angie on her Mrs South Africa Top 30 finalist journey by SMSing ANGIE CALO to 47587.
Angie’s guide to taking charge of your health
Know your body: Pay attention to changes and do not ignore something that feels unusual. If you are concerned, speak to your healthcare professional.
Ask questions: Whether you are facing surgery, treatment or recovery, make sure you understand what is happening and what you can expect next.
Respect your recovery: Healing takes time. Follow the advice of your medical team and introduce movement and exercise when you have been cleared to do so.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help: Recovery can be physically and emotionally demanding. The right professional support can make the journey feel less overwhelming.
Look after the whole you: Nutrition, movement, rest, emotional wellbeing and healthy daily habits all form part of taking care of yourself.
Keep the conversation going: Breast health should not only be a focus during October. Make your health a year-round priority.
