Happy October Philadelphia! In honor of October being Breast Cancer Awareness month, we have had the amazing opportunity to interview founder of recovery garment brand AnaOno, Dana Donofree. Read more to learn how Dana’s personal experiences inspired her to create a lingerie brand that not only serves the unique needs of breast cancer survivors but also empowers women to “turn pain into purpose”.
PPRG: AnaOno was born out of your personal experience following breast surgery. Can you share what motivated you to transform that moment into a business and how it shaped your vision for AnaOno?
DANA: AnaOno was born from a moment of personal vulnerability and frustration. After my breast cancer diagnosis and surgeries in my 20’s, I went searching for lingerie that could help me feel like myself again, but I couldn’t find anything that made me feel beautiful or comfortable. The fashion industry, especially the intimate apparel world, wasn’t designed for women like me—those whose bodies had changed after surgery. That realization fueled me to take action. I didn’t want other women to feel that same isolation. My vision for AnaOno has always been about providing bras that do more than just fit; they offer empowerment, confidence, and a reminder that beauty doesn’t disappear after cancer—it transforms. AnaOno was my way of turning pain into purpose.
PPRG: How did your background in fashion design influence your approach to creating bras that are both comfortable and beautiful for women who have undergone breast surgery?
DANA: My background in fashion design was key in shaping AnaOno’s approach and differentiation in the lingerie industry. I understood fabric, construction, and fit, but I also understood how it feels to want to look good and feel good in your own skin. That’s why I never compromised on beauty when creating our bras. I knew I wanted to design pieces that were as beautiful as anything else in the market, but with comfort and function at their core. Every stitch, every seam is purposeful, and it’s about more than just aesthetics—it’s about understanding the unique challenges that breast cancer patients & survivors face, from scar tissue to sensitive skin. Fashion should be inclusive, and with AnaOno, I wanted to prove that you don’t have to sacrifice beauty for comfort.
PPRG: What materials or attributes do you prioritize in your products that allow your bras to cater directly to the unique needs of breast cancer survivors?
DANA: We prioritize fabrics that are soft, gentle, and flexible—like modal —because we know the skin after surgery or treatment can be especially sensitive. Our bras are designed with minimal seams, adjustable features, and without harsh underwires that can irritate. We also focus on tailoring our designs to accommodate different surgical outcomes, like reconstruction, mastectomy, and lumpectomy, so our bras fit and support, no matter what. Comfort, adjustability, and support are at the forefront of every product we create. Patients & survivors deserve to feel comfortable and cared for in every way, starting with what’s closest to their skin.
PPRG: Can you talk about why it’s important for women, especially those with unique body shapes and stories, to feel seen and celebrated in their lingerie?
DANA: Women’s bodies tell stories—whether it’s through surgery scars, stretch marks, or natural shape changes. It’s essential for everyone, especially those with unique bodies or experiences, to feel seen and celebrated in what they wear because lingerie is intimate. It’s the first thing you put on in the morning and the last thing you take off at night. It should make you feel beautiful, confident, and empowered. For too long, the fashion industry set narrow standards for what is considered “beautiful,” but that’s not reflective of the real world. Every human, no matter their shape, size, or story, deserves to feel proud of who they are, and at AnaOno, we are dedicated to designing for that celebration of individuality.
PPRG: Your journey with AnaOno is deeply personal. How has it impacted your connection with the breast cancer community and other women with specific needs for lingerie?
DANA: AnaOno has brought me closer to the breast cancer community in ways I never imagined. I’ve had the honor of meeting and connecting with so many strong, resilient people who have shared their stories with me. Their experiences have continually shaped and refined AnaOno’s mission. It’s more than just selling bras—it’s about creating a space where all patients, survivors, thrivers, and previvors feel supported, represented, and understood. Hearing their feedback, struggles, and triumphs reminds me every day why I started this journey and why it’s so important that we continue to innovate and push the boundaries of what post-surgery and inclusive lingerie can be.
PPRG: What challenges did you face in disrupting the traditional lingerie market with AnaOno, and how did you overcome them while staying true to your mission?
DANA: One of the biggest challenges was breaking into an industry that wasn’t built for people like me—those who have undergone breast surgery. The traditional lingerie market was focused on aesthetics and wasn’t designed with inclusivity in mind. I faced skepticism and resistance from industry leaders who didn’t think there was a need for a brand like AnaOno. But I knew I had to keep pushing forward. By staying true to our mission—focusing on the needs of the breast cancer community rather than just profit margins—we were able to grow and gain recognition. It hasn’t been easy, but the support from the community, and knowing how needed these products are, kept me going.
PPRG: AnaOno provides a platform for women to share their stories. Can you speak about the power of storytelling and how it helps women connect with your brand on a deeper level?
DANA: Storytelling is at the heart of AnaOno. Every bra we design, every campaign we run, is inspired by the stories of real patients and their lived experiences. It’s incredibly powerful when we share in stories, not just because it creates connection, but because it helps others feel less alone. By sharing their experiences—whether it’s about breast cancer, body image, or self-confidence—we help break down the stigma and isolation that can come with these challenges. AnaOno has always been about community, and storytelling is one of the most important ways we bring people together. It’s more than just a brand; it’s a movement of patients supporting patients.
PPRG: What advice and encouragement would you give someone who has just begun their breast cancer treatment journey?
DANA: My advice is to take things one day at a time, and to remember that you are not alone. It’s a scary journey, and it’s okay to feel afraid, but don’t lose sight of your strength. There is a community of survivors, thrivers, and supporters who are here for you, ready to lift you up. Surround yourself with love, allow yourself grace, and never be afraid to ask for help. Your body might change, but your spirit, your beauty, and your power will always remain. And always remember, you are not defined by your diagnosis—you are so much more.
PPRG: What is your vision for the future of AnaOno?
DANA: My hope for AnaOno is that one day we will no longer be needed because we have found a better way to treat breast cancer than removing someone’s breast, but till then, my vision for AnaOno is to continue growing as a leader in the breast cancer and post-surgery space, reaching even more people who need us. I want to expand our product offerings to address the diverse needs of the community and push for more inclusivity in the fashion industry as a whole. It’s about making sure that no one ever feels forgotten or overlooked because of their body’s unique journey. We’ve come so far in the past decade, but we’re just getting started. There’s still so much work to do, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.
Dana continues her mission to ensure that every woman feels seen, celebrated, and proud of her unique journey. If you would like to support Dana’s cause please head to https://www.anaono.com or if you would like to continue to follow Dana’s journey through AnaOno follow her instagram @dana_donofree or @anaonointimates.
