From Survivor to Whole: Rasha’s Journey 

Rasha is a client of DAELA Cosmetic Tattoo and has graciously allowed us to interview her about her journey and survival of breast cancer and her final healing step of areola restoration tattoo. The following are Rasha’s candid answers to questions posed by Lina Anderson, Co-Owner & Master Artist at DAELA Cosmetic tattoo:

Meet Rasha Pecoraro: Plus-size model, LGBTQ+ advocate, podcaster, flight attendant, and breast cancer survivor. Rasha’s journey is one of courage, advocacy, and ultimately—healing. Rasha opens up about her experience with breast cancer, the loss of her mother, and how her final step—3D areola restoration at DAELA Cosmetic Tattoo—helped her reclaim her body and her confidence.

Getting to Know Rasha

Lina: Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background?

Rasha: I was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawai’i, and now live in the Pacific Northwest with my wife and daughter. I’ve been a plus-size model since 2003, proudly representing beauty at every size. I’m also a former reality TV star from The Biggest Loser, an LGBTQ+ advocate, and a podcaster—hosting Root of Evil, Facing Evil, and So Supernatural with my sister, Yvette. I’m also a part-time flight attendant, which keeps things exciting!

The Diagnosis and Family History

Lina: When did breast cancer first touch your life?

Rasha: My mom was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2016 after she discovered a lump. We moved her from Honolulu to Washington so she could undergo treatment. Sadly, we lost her in 2017 after the cancer metastasized. She was only 66. She was so strong through it all. Her battle—and her bravery—shaped everything for me moving forward.

Lina: How did your mom’s diagnosis affect your approach to health and prevention?

Rasha: I was considered high-risk immediately, and I didn’t take that lightly. Starting at age 38, I alternated between mammograms, ultrasounds, and MRIs every six months. My mom’s diagnosis turned me into my own biggest advocate.

Lina: Did you know you carried a genetic mutation?

Rasha: Surprisingly, no. My mom tested negative for the BRCA gene, and so did I. But that didn’t stop cancer. In 2024—eight years to the day after my mom’s diagnosis—I was diagnosed with DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma In Situ), which is Stage 0, non-invasive breast cancer. It was found during a routine mammogram, and because I was already closely monitoring my health, we caught it early.

The Roller Coaster of Treatment and Recovery

Lina: What were the most difficult or defining moments throughout your journey?

Rasha: I was lucky in that I didn’t need radiation or chemo, but I had a double mastectomy with reconstruction just days after my diagnosis in April 2024. That surgery was successful—but then came a year of complications. I ended up needing six additional surgeries due to intense scar tissue.

There were moments that nearly broke me. The physical pain, the emotional toll—it was brutal. But what kept me going was sharing my journey: on social media, on my podcast, and with fellow survivors. That connection reminded me I wasn’t alone. It gave me strength on days I had none.

The Final Step: Areola Restoration Tattoo

Lina: How has this experience changed how you live your life?

Rasha: For the longest time, I felt like I was stuck in the “messy middle”—not in crisis anymore, but far from healed. That changed on April 29, 2025. I received 3D areola restoration tattoos from Lina at DAELA Cosmetic Tattoo, and it was the final, beautiful step in my healing.

I looked in the mirror and finally saw myself again. Whole. Empowered. In love with my body. What Lina gave me was more than just the illusion of a nipple—it was the restoration of something deeply personal. I finally feel ready to live again.

Words of Wisdom for Others

Lina: If you could go back to the beginning, what would you tell yourself?

Rasha: I’d say: “No matter what happens, no matter how hard it gets, this journey will be worth it. You won’t just survive—you’ll thrive. Breast cancer won’t break you. It will reveal the warrior you already are.”

Why Areola Restoration Matters

At DAELA Cosmetic Tattoo, we know that healing from breast cancer doesn’t end with the last surgery. For many survivors, the emotional and psychological closure comes with areola restoration—a deeply personal step that helps people feel whole again.

Our 3D areola restoration tattoos are designed to look hyper-realistic and natural. But even more importantly, they are designed to empower. It’s not about what was lost—it’s about what’s reclaimed.

Rasha’s story is a testament to that power.

Interested in 3D Areola Restoration?

If you or someone you love is navigating life after breast cancer and considering areola restoration tattooing, we invite you to explore this final, transformative step with us.

Learn more and book your consultation at daelacosmetictattoo.com.

Because every survivor deserves to feel whole again.