Original article can be found at the New York Times

Mrs. Marchetto, 43, has had to learn to do something of the sort since she was found to have breast cancer last May. But rather than view herself as a cancer victim, Mrs. Marchetto prefers a snazzier, more empowering handle: Cancer Vixen.

In a six-page cartoon spread in the current issue of Glamour magazine, Mrs. Marchetto chronicles her 11-month bout with cancer, from the first mammogram to chemotherapy and radiation treatments, in poignant and comical detail. She argues with her mother (whom she dubs “smother”); cries an ocean of tears with a gaggle of best friends; questions God (“Hey you up there, how could you make me a bald, unhealthy, baggage-ridden bride?”); marries her long-time love, Silvano Marchetto, the wonderfully colorful, white-haired owner of Da Silvano; and dabbles in cabala. She also makes a point of wearing designer shoes to her chemo sessions. Session 2: Giuseppe Zanotti sandals. Session 6: White patent leather pumps by Hotel Venus. Read more…