Made with Empathy

It’s often said that when you need a message, the universe delivers it twice. For me, the theme of Inclusion for this month’s blog hop hit my inbox on the very same day I read about Promod’s Amour Rose collection. It was a moment of profound, emotional synergy.

We fortunately now see clothing for the plus-size community and tall size community, but I never imagined I’d see something so beautifully adaptive for cancer warriors like me—clothing designed specifically with our fragile reality in mind.

Honestly, trying to contort your body for a blood draw because of a restrictive sleeve, or attempting to get into a stiff, scratchy turtleneck when your scalp is tender, is a full-contact sport you immediately lose.

That’s where Promod’s collection resonated so deeply. It felt like finding a beautiful, intentional oasis. This collection wasn't adaptation—it was affirmation. It meets needs with three non-negotiable design principles :

Photo from PROMOD website

* Material: Prioritizing softness and gentleness, ensuring fabrics don't irritate sensitive skin or surgical scars.

 * The Cut: Thoughtful designs that focus on coverage and comfort, avoiding restrictive necklines or sleeves for the blood tests, scans, scars and chemo shots.

 * Ease of Wear: Utilizing smart buttons and zips strategically placed for quick access with fingers that face loss of the sense of touch.

This level of thought is a clear statement: "We see you. We understand your needs."

The inclusion I felt from Promod wasn't just about their product; it was about their empathy that allowed people like me to feel safe and stylish, regardless of whether we chose a wig, a scarf, or nothing at all.

I struggled with the definition of inclusion when I lost my hair. Wigs, for me, aren’t the solution to exclusion. The true feeling of being included came from being accepted in my bald state, which I gratefully got from my husband and son. Empathy isn't just a lovely thought; it’s a blueprint for a kinder, more beautiful world.

Everyone wants to feel heard and understood. We are all just seeking recognition of our universal human needs, even when those needs manifest because of a visible difference. If only we change sympathy—which often holds a tone of pity—to empathy—which holds a tone of shared understanding—then this can be an inclusive world for all. 

I know that for many, there's still a long way to go, and I meet people all the time who don’t understand my experience the way I need. However, fortunately, I also meet people who make me feel comfortable in my new skin and hair. While the world has a long way to go, we only need a single moment of connection to change our personal world. If you find just one person out there who truly listens and understands, that's a great start already. That connection is your sanctuary. It’s all it takes to hold your head high, because you realize you aren’t alone.

You just have to look in the right place—it may not be the way you expect, but it might be the way you deserve and need.

This post is a part of ‘Currents of Kindness bloghop’ hosted by Manali Desai and Sukaina Majeed.

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