Meet AnaOno agent, Mackenzie Alleman. Mackenzie is a previvor, BRCA1 advocate and an ambassador for The Breasties. She lost her mother to triple negative breast cancer in 2014 and has a family history, so she chose genetic testing and had a prophylactic bilateral mastectomy.
Mackenzie’s Breast Cancer Story:
Diagnosed in 2016 with BRCA1 gene mutation.
Treatment: Mastectomy in March 2018 with DIEP flap reconstruction.
Fun fact:
Mackenzie loves to cook. She regularly buy items from Reading Terminal Market (a famous Philadelphia food market) and experiments with new recipes. She started cooking about 6 years ago after being inspired by MasterChef Junior.
Read on to hear more from her and join us in welcoming her to The Agency!
What's your passion?
Writing, using my voice, and sharing my personal story in order to help others. Growing through grief.
What makes you happiest?
Being surrounded by my loved ones. Exploring new places.
What do you do to feel confident and embrace your body?
I'm definitely still learning, we all are. I feel most confident in my body when I'm pushing it a little, whether that rowing, hiking, or even trying out a new outfit choice. I feel most confident by continuing to learn and listen to my body, and having open conversations about my struggles.
What does "Never Alone" mean to you?
That you'll always have someone, in this community, cheering you on.
Which is your favorite AnaOno bra? Why?
The Kiku was my fave! Now I'm a big fan of Susan and Monica!
What does being part of The Agency mean to you?
It means continuing to help women find courage and comfort. In 2018, while still recovering from my mastectomy I attended my first AO NYFW show and it changed my life. It showed me how beautiful I was, reminded me how strong my Mom was, and gave me friends who feel like family.
If you were to give advice to someone diagnosed with breast cancer or having a preventative surgery, what would you say?
My best advice to someone choosing a preventative surgery is to find the right doctors for you. Ask all the questions. Know you have options!
What's your guilty pleasure?
Dining out. I've found I need more hobbies during 2020 lol.
You can follow along with Mackenzie on her Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
