Kitsie

I won my fight with a different kind of cancer and in some ways do not always like all the attention going to breast cancer. There are many cancers in women, men and children and I would rather all cancers be recognized.

For me, it was like I had any serious medical problem that was resolved and I don't want to identify my self and my life as "a cancer survivor".

Maybe she'd rather move past it, too.
Bless you for your support and love to her.

bigdogmom

I survived colon cancer about 13 years ago (Yeah!). After the surgery and chemo was all over, I wanted no reminders. I did not want to feel different. Over time it got easier to talk about and the word "cancer" quit making me cringe. Like others have said go with your gut. Myself I would have loved a quilt but maybe something that signifies new beginnings or even her favorite color. What a wonderful sister she has and I know the families struggle right along with the family/friend fighting that cancer battle.

bigsister63

If you are questioning this choice of backing then chose another one. Better to be safe that upset your sister.

Dina

I have really been thinking about this subject, and I have changed my mind back and forth several times. I belong for a support group for macular degeneration, and, even though I know it is a different thing, most of the members stress that "they are more than just the disease." If that transfers over to breast cancer, the pink ribbons fabric really may not be the right backing for your sister's quilt.

I am going to second bigsister 63, if you are in doubt, use another fabric. (Just my thoughts on it all....) You are so thoughtful, not only to make the quilt, but to try to really really please your sister.

Sadiemae

Whatever your decision, you are doing a wonderful thing. Listen to your heart.

ghostrider

I, too, would suggest that if you have any doubts at all, you should go with something else. The pink ribbons call attention to the disease, as is the intent of the awareness campaign, but a great many women, like your sister, do not want that attention drawn to themselves. Do not let her think the disease defines her, for it clearly does not.

GagaSmith

I agree with EIQuilter. Just ask your sister. I'm sure she will be glad to let you know her feelings.
I have survived breast cancer twice, radiation, mastectomy and reconstructive surgery (most recently 5 years ago) and I have mixed feelings about having a pink ribbon quilt (I don't have one and have never made one). On one hand, during my treatments, it meant hope and support. Now, I don't want a constant reminder of what I went through. I am happy and proud to be a survivor but don't want to be thought of as a victim. I will pray for your sister's complete recovery.

frugalfabrics

Maybe just put a little square in one of the back corners...that way you'd be safe either way.

carolaug

Thank-you all for your feedback - after reading all of these responses I think I will be on the safe side and use a flower flannel background instead. Again thank you!!!

cmw0829

Glad you made that decision. If you'd used the pink ribbons - as unsure as you sounded in your first post - you'd always wonder how she felt about it and whether you'd offended her.