Dale Arriaga, a breast cancer survivor, decided she wanted to help others like her, by joining a non-profit that helps with prosthetics.
TUCSON, Ariz. — October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and KGUN 9 is showcasing survivors and organizations that are helping women with cancer.
"In 2008, I had breast cancer. I had to have a double mastectomy. I have three sisters. We've all had double mastectomies and cancer," Arriaga said."So I could not wear the silicone they were heavy," Arriaga said."They broke me out. I could not wear them. So a lady at church told me about these, I ordered a pair. They're free. They came and it was like heaven. They weigh nothing. You can wash them in the wash machine unlike the silicone, they don't cost $250.
Since 2017, she has led a group of volunteers and has given out over 2,000 Knitted Knockers. Knitted Knockers are a knitted prosthetic that can be easily washed and sized down or up. "To see women at my events that I do," Arriaga said."I've had women go in the bathroom and put them on and come out crying.""You can wear them right after surgery," Arriaga said."You don't have to wait six months and there are women who won't go out in public for six months.""We tell people they will float. So we do tell people put maybe a fishing hook in them or sew them into your bathing suit," Arriaga said.
For more information on how you can help sponsor Knitted Knockers or would like to order a pair, visit the Knitted Knockers website.Denelle Confair is an anchor and investigative reporter for KGUN 9. It's been her dream to tell your stories for the past decade. She is extremely curious and wants to continue to use her storytelling for the greater good. Share your story ideas and important issues with Denelle by emailing [email protected] or by connecting on Facebook, and Twitter.