Cancer survivor shines at Mrs Universe Jamaica pageant

Kaydia McKoy has checked off another item on her bucket list by stepping into the world of pageantry.

But beyond the glamour, her heart remains firmly rooted in charity, volunteerism, and supporting cancer survivors. At 35, McKoy, a breast cancer survivor herself, has become a symbol of resilience and hope for those battling cancer.

"I want women to know that there is life after cancer," she shared, passionately using her platform to inspire and uplift others. For McKoy, entering the Mrs Universe Jamaica competition was more than just a personal challenge - it was an opportunity to share her journey and build her confidence.

"I simply wanted to use the platform to build my confidence and share my story," she admitted. In the final on August 24, McKoy won three sectional prizes, for Most Congenial, Best Interview, and Best in Fashion Wear. In addition, she was selected as Mrs Cosmos Queen of Jamaica, one of the three crowns presented under the Mrs Universe Jamaica pageant. Annieka Lisa Francis took the Mrs Universe Jamaica pageant while Shanneil Brown-Bleary was selected as Mrs Intercontinental. The Mrs Universe pageant is open to married women, mothers, and mature women.

Though her primary focus wasn't on winning a crown, McKoy felt the support of those whose lives are impacted by cancer and her family, especially her daughter, who was in the audience cheering her on.

"Seeing her there filled me with emotion as I reflected on my journey... I wanted nothing more than to make my daughter and family proud," she said.

Beyond her pageant victory, McKoy's dedication to health and wellness is a testament to her post-treatment lifestyle. After undergoing treatment, she made significant changes to her diet and lifestyle, focusing on her overall well-being.

"I try to eat healthy. I've been on my green juice, eating a whole heap of fruits and vegetables. I never used to eat fruits and vegetables before, but I've been doing it intentionally." She now maintains a mostly vegetarian diet, carefully avoiding processed foods and soy, as her cancer was hormone-driven.

"I watch everything I eat. Ninety per cent of my diet is vegetarian," she said, noting how she researches and asks her doctors to ensure she's on the right path. However, McKoy admitted that the mental aspect of surviving cancer has been one of her biggest challenges.

"My body is still going through a lot of changes, and I'm still on treatment... but helping other women keeps me strong," she said. Her coping mechanism is staying busy--whether through pageantry, charity work, or simply being there for other women in the cancer community.

"I feel like I have a purpose, and I think I'm stronger now than before," she added.

When McKoy is out doing her charity work, she's often met with curious faces and the same question "What's the catch?" She chuckled at the memory, knowing how people can be sceptical of free giveaways.

"Ladies will ask me why I'm giving out brochures, flyers, and pens for free, and I just smile and tell them, 'There's no catch, just make me one promise... get your mammogram done.'"

Looking ahead, McKoy has no plans to slow down. Having taken the Cosmos title, she will soon represent Jamaica in Europe at an international competition, but her mission remains the same - empowering women and raising awareness about cancer.

"Turn your struggles into strength. Love and embrace who you are, stay positive, and be a keeper for your sisters and brothers," McKoy urged.