29/10/2026
MEET CHIQUIT BRAMMALL — A PINK SWAN WHO NEVER GAVE UP DANCING.
Today is World Ballet Day, and October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Chiquit’s story reminds us that ballet's positive impact extends beyond the stage. It can build strength, support mobility, nurture wellbeing and create lasting friendships.
A breast cancer survivor, Chiquit became a Pink Swan in 2023. Through numerous health challenges, ballet has remained her joy and motivation.
In 2026, Chiquit underwent a double mastectomy. The strength she built through ballet helped her regain fitness and get back on track after treatment.
Dr Rachel E Ward, Founder and Director of Reward Dance, has been Chiquit's ballet teacher since 2023. As a Dancer and Exercise Physiologist, Rachel understands the physical impacts of breast cancer and adapts movements to help Chiquit participate safely and confidently.
“Rachel is like a cheerleader… I love that she cares.”
Rachel connected Chiquit with the other Pink Swans at Reward Dance, creating a supportive community where women could share their experiences of breast cancer.
Chiquit has continued attending the Reward Dance Sunday Swans throughout treatment and felt ready to return to ballet just six weeks after surgery!
What does ballet mean to Chiquit?
“Ballet is helping me come to terms with my new body, while still being really happy that I can move the way I do. It keeps mobility going.”
“The friends I've made have become a support group.”
Despite a troublesome knee and challenges with turnout, Chiquit continues to build strength and progress.
Her message to others considering ballet?
“Ballet is the last thing I would ever give up. I just want to keep dancing.”
This World Ballet Day, let’s celebrate the power of dance to bring people together, build confidence and support physical and social wellbeing.
For those navigating cancer and recovery, an inclusive dance community can offer encouragement, connection and joy.
Ballet is more than dance. It’s strength, friendship and a reason to keep moving.
💞🦢🩰💖
