Breast cancer survivor celebrates scars topless
Israeli performing artist Eylon Nuphar is scarred and proud.
Just a month ago, she underwent a double mastectomy as part of breast cancer treatment.
And now the 49-year-old stands shirtless beneath a pink blazer, posing for the cover of Laisha - one of Israel's most popular women's magazines.
Nuphar is no stranger to the spotlight though.
She has a long history as a performer, journalist, director, choreographer, and activist.
"I chose not to do reconstruction, which makes me flat and fierce."
Nuphar has the BRCA gene - which is associated with an increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
She was diagnosed with breast cancer at 33, and underwent chemotherapy, a lumpectomy, and radiation.
When the cancer returned 16 years later and she opted for the double mastectomy, she decided not to endure further surgery.
"This is something that women are dealing with all over the world and they're so afraid of not going through reconstruction so they don't have to deal with being so different and they don't have to deal with the shame of someone looking at them or not looking at them - feeling attractive or not attractive. If this is part of what women are going through, it should be an option, because it's the safest option one can do. "
Nuphar hopes her cover shoot for Laisha weekly will inspire other women going through similar issues.
"It's a very personal choice. I guess I'm brave enough to do it and carry my scars and love them but I am only brave because I know it will help other women."
