Ruth Handler's personal health challenges led her to become an advocate for breast cancer awareness and the development of more realistic breast prosthetics.
Breast Cancer Diagnosis
1970
Handler was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent a modified radical mastectomy.
Development of Nearly Me
1970s
Handler, frustrated with the limited and unappealing breast prosthetic options, developed a line of realistic artificial breasts called Nearly Me with Peyton Massey.
Advocacy for Breast Cancer Awareness
Late 1970s
Handler became an outspoken advocate for early detection of breast cancer and promoted Nearly Me as a way for women to feel confident and proud after mastectomy.
