Graphic novel details cancer journey

In her graphic novel Timing parfait, Marie Curvale shares her personal experience of discovering she had breast cancer just before giving birth to her second child. The story is told through the drawings of Loïcia Mood, and it follows Curvale’s emotional and physical journey through diagnosis, treatment, and motherhood.

Diagnosis during childbirth

Curvale, who was more than eight months pregnant, felt a lump in her breast during a shower on a "calme and happy" Sunday morning. This led to an emergency room visit, an ultrasound, a biopsy, and the imminent birth of her child. During labor, between the rupture of the amniotic sac and the administration of an epidural, she learned she had breast cancer.

Emotional response to diagnosis

Curvale had previously experienced cancer in her family at a young age, which made her quickly dismiss the question "Why me?" but left her with the more painful question: "Why now?" When asked about her mental state upon receiving the diagnosis during childbirth, she said she felt relieved, as the waiting period had been unbearable. However, the diagnosis later resurfaced with physical discomforts like a painful tumor and milk engorgement.

Balancing motherhood and treatment

The months following her diagnosis were described as the most difficult, as Curvale had to manage medical appointments, chemotherapy, and time spent away from her newborn son. She prioritized her children but also found support from medical staff who provided both cancer treatment and psychological support. She mentioned that a part of denial helped her cope during this time.

Hiding emotions from children

Curvale discussed the "poker face" she used to hide her emotions from her children, a concept she adopted from other mothers. She prepared her older daughter for the news by consulting multiple pediatric psychiatrists, who advised her to tell the truth with appropriate words. She made the experience of losing her hair a celebration, ordering turbans, scarves, and hair crowns, and involving her daughter in the process.

Explaining cancer to children

Curvale also talked about discussing her diagnosis with her newborn son, explaining that it had nothing to do with him and that he was surrounded by love. She used books to explain cancer to children, ensuring her story was not hidden but also not too heavy. Throughout the comic, the image of a mountain to climb represents the treatment and recovery journey.