When Nele walked into our pop-up store, it felt like the sun came in with her. Warm, quick to laugh, full of life — and eyes that smile even before she does. While she enjoyed a free make-up session during our very first pamper afternoon, we fired a few questions her way. Who is she? How does she cope with hair loss? What did she learn from the make-up tips? And most importantly: does she have advice for others going through the same? Here are 5 questions for Nele!

Nele, can you briefly tell us who you are?

“I’m 45, mum to a 14-year-old daughter and a 16-year-old son. I work as a project manager at a large medical company. And since September, I’ve been receiving chemo for breast cancer.”

You’ve just chosen a few beautiful scarves. How does losing your hair feel for you?

“It’s not really new for me. When I was about 18, I had Hodgkin’s. Losing my hair back then felt like the end of the world. I chose a wig but it didn’t look natural at all. My own hair was always thin and that wig looked so ‘overdone’.

This time, I knew straight away I didn’t want a wig — I wanted scarves. I find it easier to cope with hair loss now. I understand much better that it’s only temporary.”

Do you find it important how you look?

“Absolutely. I spend more time in the bathroom now than before (laughs). I pay more attention to myself, also because I actually have more time now. I started with three scarves but I probably have more than ten already. I like to switch things up. And I treat myself more. That’s why I love this pamper session so much. Doing something nice for yourself now and then is really important.”

And what do you think of your make-up? Did you learn anything?

“It looks very natural! I’m definitely going to remember Katarina’s concealer tips. Apparently I need to apply it closer to my eyes than I usually do. And for eye make-up, I always chose blue tones because my eyes are blue. But Katarina used rosy and brownish shades for a more natural look. I’m going to try that at home!”

Nele, you radiate optimism. Do you have tips for others going through cancer?

“For me, good information helps. I want to understand all the numbers and lab reports. I’m really a control freak (laughs). And I try to keep things as normal as possible. If I have the energy, I plan something fun with the kids or meet friends, just like I normally would. And be open. Don’t hide or feel ashamed. When I heard I had cancer, I sent my colleagues a message right away. That way everyone knew and no one had to feel awkward.”

Thank you, Nele. Wish you all the best!

See more photos from this beauty session day for people with cancer >>
Read also: Positive Nele after a bumpy cancer journey: “I try to soak up as much of life as I can” >>