Summer Safety During Cancer
Summer — especially in extreme heat — can be tough for anyone. But under a blazing sun, while navigating cancer treatment or recovery, it can feel overwhelming. Everything changes: your body, your energy, your skin, even how you choose to live your life. My Cancer Family spoke with two recent survivors who generously shared their summer wisdom, lived experience, and go-to hacks to help make the journey a little easier for others. From sunblock tips to managing skin irritation, from UPF clothing and wide-brim hats to staying hydrated and avoiding sunburn, to their favorite programs with support and non-profits — they’re offering the kind of advice only someone who’s been there truly understands.
Summer Wisdom & Tips from Katie Cetta
Katie Cetta is a recent survivor. She was diagnosed in August 2023 with Stage 3C Triple Negative Breast Cancer and tested BRCA1 positive.
Follow her on Instagram @katiecetta.
As a Los Angeles transplant, I didn’t have family nearby during treatment, but I wasn’t alone. I found most of my support through my friends and the cancer community. I relied deeply on my spirituality to remain hopeful. Practices like meditation, reiki, breath-work, yoga, and pilates helped me reconnect to my body and stay grounded through the chaos. Movement became medicine — even when it was gentle. I also found strength through adventure and community. Programs like We Are Ocean (through the NAC) reminded me I was still alive and capable of joy, while spaces like WeGotThis.org and The Breasties surrounded me with people who understood the journey intimately.
Following treatment, I founded Bravara Marketing— a purpose-driven social media agency created to uplift survivor-led brands, nonprofits, and mission-driven entrepreneurs. Building something rooted in meaning helped me
reconnect with myself and give back to the community that supported me.
Staying cool and comfortable post-treatment can take a little creativity, especially if you’re dealing with lingering sensitivity from radiation or fatigue. Here are a few of my go-to’s this summer:
Neck fan – A lifesaver when the heat gets intense. It goes wherever I go when it’s crazy hot outside.
BeeCure® – The only thing I trust on my skin after radiation. It’s been incredible for sunburns too.
Larq water bottle – Staying hydrated is easier with a bottle that filters itself. Plus, it’s cute.
Forme bra – I swear by their posture-correcting sports bra for gentle back support, especially after surgery.
SurvivorRx – A grounding sleep support that’s helped me fall — and stay — asleep. Total game changer.
Also, a Lazy Sunday— A summer ritual I protect fiercely. No plans, no pressure — just space to rest and breathe.
Wherever you are in your journey — newly diagnosed, mid-treatment, or finding your footing in survivorship — I hope you know that you’re not alone.
Healing doesn’t follow a straight line, especially in the heat of summer. Be gentle with yourself. Drink water. Wear the breezy dress. Say no when you need to. And remember: joy counts as medicine, too
Summer Wisdom & Tips from Marie Fredrickson
At My Cancer Family, we’re deeply inspired by Marie Fredrickson and honored to share a glimpse into her ongoing journey. Marie is a mom living with Stage 4 breast cancer — and just as courageously, she’s beginning nursing school. Follow her journey on instagram at @futurenursebreastie and @lipstickheelsandbebes.
Her perspective is powerful, and if this quote doesn’t move you, we don’t know what will:
Because a diagnosis like this doesn’t mean your life is over. It just means it’s time to live it more fully. To stop waiting. To stop wondering. To start writing the next chapter, even if it’s not the one you pictured.
Welcome to my Nurse Breastie Era 🩺
A space where nursing school, treatment, and life collide — and where purpose takes the lead.”
“Marie, thank you for showing us what it looks like to live with intention, strength, and heart. Your journey is a reminder that even in the hardest chapters, purpose and hope still shine.
Marie Fredrickson shared that summer — both during and after treatment — came with its own unique set of challenges. But she’s happy to pass along a few things that helped her feel safe, comfortable, and able to truly enjoy the sunshine.
My Summer Go-To Tips & Products:
Cooling Towels – I lived in these! You just wet them and drape around your neck. They helped me manage hot flashes and stay cool during walks or treatments.
Sensitive Skin Sunscreen – My go-to was mineral-based with no fragrance. I really liked Elta MD.
Salt-Free Chlorine Neutralizing Spray – I didn’t realize how much chlorine would dry out or irritate my skin post-treatment until I tried this spray
Hydration– Hydration was everything, especially with chemo fatigue. I love LMNT and Liquid I.V. — clean ingredients and travel-friendly.
SPF clothes – During treatment, my skin was so sensitive. I relied on lightweight, breathable UPF wraps or long-sleeve cover-ups.
Wide-Brim Hat & Oversized Sunglasses – More than cute accessories, they were essential armor for photosensitivity and eye comfort.