Cleveland Clinic eXpressions

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Saying Goodbye to “Self”

Samantha Havens

eXpressions™ Award: Blue Ribbon and Best in Show

Saying Goodbye to “Self ” is a direct approach to the emotional state of a breast cancer victim. The protective pose, disease-ridden veins, and nudity symbolize the sudden invasion a patient endures upon being diagnosed. Doctors, nurses, the disease itself all invade the body to fight a battle one is not prepared to undergo in the first place. The bald head and medical mask symbolize the effects of the process. The terror in the eyes is the final symbol to drag the viewer into the world of the diagnosed.