I'm a social worker, a single mom, and someone who loves life. But on New Year's Eve back in 2015, my world shifted with a cancer diagnosis. Little did I know that this journey would bring an unexpected, decade-long challenge: The simple act of wearing a seatbelt would become nearly impossible.

I was at work when I received the call confirming the biopsy results: I had breast cancer. It was traumatic. My sisters came immediately, and together, we faced the difficult task of telling my son, then a high school sophomore. It was hard for him, seeing his mom facing such uncertainty.

Right after the holidays, things moved quickly. Within weeks, I had a lumpectomy — a breast cancer treatment that removes a tumor and a margin of healthy tissue while preserving your breast. The news was good: Stage 1, with no spread to lymph nodes. I went through chemo and radiation, finishing treatment by summer 2016, and started medication I've been on ever since.

“Little did I know ... The simple act of wearing a seatbelt would become nearly impossible.”

Charlotte Richardson

While treatment was successful, a persistent challenge emerged. Right after surgery and radiation, wearing a seatbelt was impossible. As I healed, nerve damage from lymph node removal caused a tingly, burning sensation on my right arm. The seatbelt, which crossed my surgery spot and rubbed against my arm, triggered intense discomfort and irritation.

I just couldn't endure it.

For nine years, I stopped wearing the shoulder portion of my seatbelt, using only the lap belt. I knew I was putting myself at risk in case of an accident and worried about being stopped by police. It wasn't safe, but the discomfort was too much to bear.

Then, I received an email through my FordPass app about a new accessory called the Ford SupportBelt™. While it was advertised for mastectomy survivors, I thought, "Maybe this could help me too," even with a lumpectomy. It was free, so I requested one.

When it arrived, I put it on immediately and tried it in my car. I was surprised! For the first time in nearly 10 years, I could wear the seatbelt properly without pain. The SupportBelt fits well, creating a buffer so the belt doesn't rub against that sensitive area.

Order a SupportBelt

Now, I use it every day. If I'm in my car, it's on my seatbelt. Being able to wear my seatbelt properly again has given me so much peace of mind.

I'm passionate about breast cancer advocacy. My license plate even says "SURVIVED"! It's a reminder of how far I've come. If my story can help even one other person find the comfort and safety they need on the road, then sharing it is absolutely worth it.

Charlotte Richardson is a social worker, single mom and passionate advocate sharing her survivor story.