Kim Zipp on the job at UHFCU
Kim Zipp is a woman on fire. Just two years since being diagnosed with Stage 2B breast cancer, Zipp exemplifies the type of determination that perhaps only another survivor can understand.
Acknowledging her lax attitude toward breast examination, Zipp admits she was not as vigilant, performing only occasional checks. So, at 36, when Zipp discovered a lump on her left breast, she didn’t put it together with cancer.
“I work part-time as a concierge at Victoria’s Secret, so I thought it was just a bruise from bumping into racks,” confessed Zipp, “within two weeks my whole life changed.”
A teary Zipp recalled her conversation with older sister, Tina, a former attorney and current stay at home mom. “Tina is my tough, practical sister…and that’s exactly what I needed, a little tough love.”
This love was transformative and not limited to sisters, but woven into a tapestry of sisterhood between survivors and artists when Zipp was able to share her story at the Chic in the City/Susan G. Komen benefit event held May 28th at the Dole Cannery Ballroom.
A single gal, Zipp’s ability to heal and transcend the rigors of treatment has been buoyed by her friends and co-workers at the UH Federal Credit Union.
“Sure”, Zipp confided, “…there were some who were scared to approach me, maybe even feeling bad that they were happy it wasn’t them…I understand that. But then there were others who wouldn’t cut me any slack…they wouldn’t let me give up and I’m glad – I just didn’t want to feel like I was broken,” Zipp whispered, smiling to hold back more tears.
Zipp reflects on her multiple wig malfunctions, from sitting on her sleek auburn locks, pulling it off her head, to worrying about getting the “part” just right. “I had to scold my friend when she didn’t tell me my part was off one day,” laughed Zipp.
Zipp set her intention on the future, without worrying about what she could not change. “All I did for the next year was focus on getting better. Friends took me to the Mac counter at Neiman Marcus, and taught me how to draw in my eyebrows…that’s love,” smiled Zipp, who is currently in remission.
Spreading her message of love and hope was the next practical step. In addition to talking with anyone who needed her help, and not wanting to waste a day, Zipp increased her community involvement.
“I joined a networking group for women, Social Wahines. I found out about Chic in the City when we were planning a girl’s night out. I got all my friends to come out since they have been my biggest supporters and we had a great time.”
Zipp’s advice to women, “Get a mammogram…know your history…talk with your doctor… do perform self-exams…don’t be scared - just do it. “Early detection is vital to treatment…don’t wait until it’s too late.”
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