Our Story
Rare. Seen. Strong. began with my own story, but it was created for so many more.
I’m Angela Falk, a pharmacist, author, cancer survivor and patient advocate. At 45, a routine colonoscopy changed my life when I was unexpectedly diagnosed with HPV-associated anal cancer. What followed was surgery, recurrence, chemoradiation, hospitalization and recovery - a journey that changed not only my life, but the way I understood what it means to feel truly seen during some of our hardest moments.
As I navigated my diagnosis and treatment, I became deeply aware of the isolation that can come with a cancer that is rare, stigmatized or simply not talked about enough. I knew I couldn’t be the only person who had felt this way.
That realization became the beginning of Rare. Seen. Strong.
What started with my own experience grew into a much bigger mission: to help bring visibility to people facing rare cancers, rare diseases and other often-unseen battles, and to recognize the patients, survivors, caregivers, advocates, families and loved ones whose lives are touched by them.
Everything you find here has meaning behind it. The black-and-white zebra woven throughout the brand represents rare disease and rare cancer awareness, while individual awareness colors and thoughtful details help recognize specific cancers, diseases and communities.
Many of our pieces are handmade and designed with intention. They aren’t simply products - they are reminders of strength, connection, advocacy and hope. A way to say, “I see you,” to someone who may need to hear it.
Rare. Seen. Strong. is also an extension of my advocacy work and my memoir, *The Whisper and the Fire: A Journey Through Cancer, Surrender, and Finding My Voice*, in which I share my own journey through diagnosis, treatment, faith, surrender, survivorship and finding purpose on the other side of cancer.
Today, Rare. Seen. Strong. exists for every person whose story deserves to be acknowledged, shared and seen.
Because every story matters
No one should feel invisible in their diagnosis. No story should go unseen. And no one should have to face an unseen battle alone.
