Toks Olagundoye is a name that resonates with strength and resilience. Recently, she shared her inspiring journey of overcoming triple-negative breast cancer. This experience not only tested her limits but also helped her embrace the importance of self-care, especially for Black women.
A Life-Changing Diagnosis
When Toks Olagundoye received her diagnosis, she felt a whirlwind of emotions. “Initially, I was annoyed,” she said, reflecting on that fateful day. Having had mammograms before, she expected her results to be routine. However, the news was different this time. Toks was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, a type that is aggressive and often has fewer treatment options.
Despite the challenges, Toks found a strange sense of relief in her diagnosis. She shared, “There’s so much cancer in my family… I was like, well, I don’t have to worry about getting something anymore.” This perspective allowed her to focus on healing.
Juggling Work and Treatment
At the time of her diagnosis, Toks was filming for the Paramount+ series Fatal Attraction. She underwent five surgeries, including a double mastectomy and chemotherapy, all while managing her acting career. Thankfully, her production team supported her needs, allowing her to focus on her health.
“Thankfully, I didn’t have to work every day,” she recalled. Toks expressed gratitude for her family, who stood by her during this tough time. Her husband and parents provided unwavering support, ensuring she felt loved and cared for.
Finding New Opportunities
During her treatment, Toks landed a new role as Olivia Finch in the reboot of Frasier. She received the offer just two weeks after finishing chemotherapy. “I was exhausted, but I was so grateful,” she stated, highlighting how this opportunity brought joy amidst her struggles.
Working on Frasier helped her shift her mindset. Instead of succumbing to anxiety, she focused on enjoying her role. Toks said, “I was so excited to be there… I just listened to what the directors and producers told me.” This experience marked a new chapter in her life, filled with hope and positivity.
Embracing Self-Care and Empowerment
Toks Olagundoye is now a passionate advocate for self-care among Black women. She firmly believes that they deserve to prioritize their health and well-being. “We have been taught that we don’t deserve the life we have,” she remarked, emphasizing the need for Black women to reclaim their worth.
Self-care, according to Toks, means adopting a healthy lifestyle and being proactive about health checks. She encourages women to know their bodies well and to consult doctors if something feels off. “If you feel like there is something wrong with you… go talk to your doctor,” she advises. Her message is clear: prioritize health and seek help until you find the right support.
Spreading Awareness
Through her journey, Toks has become a voice for awareness around breast health. She urges women to learn about breast exams and to keep up with their annual check-ups. “If we don’t take care of ourselves, who will take care of our families?” she asks, highlighting the importance of self-care not just for individuals but for the entire family.
Toks Olagundoye’s story is not just about beating cancer; it’s about empowering others to take control of their health and well-being. By sharing her experiences, she inspires Black women to embrace self-care with strength and grace.
