Surthriver
Surthriver

Every woman has her own level of comfort with applying cosmetics. And we like it that way. From beginners and casual browsers to mid-level makeup enthusiasts, all are welcome here.


However, it does give us the warm fuzzies to see Prime get the seal of approval from a true beauty expert. And we’re not talking about Vogue, Good Housekeeping, or Cosmopolitan (all of whom have talked us up), but rather, this month’s Surthrvivor, Linda Preston.


As a professional makeup artist, the 69-year-old Toronto resident knows her way around a mascara wand. And we are humbled beyond belief that she’s chosen to make PrimeLash Mascara her go to product.


This iconic mascara, along with a vibrant lipstick, were by her side as she arrived at the hospital for chemotherapy treatments. Her breast cancer battle wasn’t easy, but she came out stronger with a support system of friends, family, and pro-age beauty to feel stunning inside and out.


During this period, we saw Linda’s ability to continuously create something beautiful — whether it’s a face of flawless makeup or a positive outlook in the midst of turmoil.

Everything Happens For a Reason — Even a Triple Tragedy

Shortly after finishing up a stint as makeup artist on the TV series, The Way Home, last December, Linda got hit with a series of bad news.


She found out that her landlord was selling the house she’d lived in for over fifteen years, while her brother was diagnosed with a brain tumor.


And perhaps most shocking of all, a routine mammogram (encouraged by her recently-diagnosed “breast friend”) revealed that she had stage one breast cancer. It was one devastating thing after another, but Linda refused to lay down and take it.

“What are the chances of both of us [my brother and I] being diagnosed within weeks of each other? Everything happens for a reason. I can help him and his family and they can help me. I moved February 1st 2024, only 6 minutes away from the family.”

As she began her cancer treatment journey — which included a lumpectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation — Linda began to understand the power of perspective. Perhaps the tears shed during this difficult time were watering the seeds of something more beautiful? If her friend hadn’t pushed her over-50 circle to get a mammogram after her own diagnosis, she may not have helped Linda find the tumors so early, potentially saving her life.

“I remained positive with good thoughts and intentions. My brother had his surgery and is now on the mend. A positive attitude goes a long way.”

If she hadn’t been forced to find a new home, Linda wouldn’t have moved a few minutes away from her brother’s family to help aid each other’s medical journeys.


And of course, we can’t forget that the post-chemotherapy process of regrowing her lashes and brows led to the discovery of PrimeLash Growth Serum.

Find Power & Positivity Amongst the Pain

For now, let’s talk about how Linda maintained a positive attitude throughout her breast cancer treatment. The support of her family and friends was priceless… and she even got her lumpectomy on February 14th as a symbol of appreciation for “Galentine’s Day!”


Her friends drove her to appointments and became her cheerleader and Linda did the same for others by documenting her journey on Instagram.

She included snippets from every part of the process — ranging from good times like donning fun wigs and bright outfits to less-ideal moments like losing her hair.


But even during the “bad times”, she didn’t care! All that mattered to Linda was beating cancer and coming out stronger than ever, both mentally and physically.


And that she did, but only with the help of a positive attitude and an overflow of support.

“I honestly did not mind the hair loss. I was just glad that I was moving forward with my care and going to kick cancer's ass! I celebrated my new look with bright colours and always lipstick.”

Of course, looking on the bright side isn’t as easy for all women as it was for Linda.

Despite the physical side of cancer being well-covered, very few discuss the mental aspect of such a rigorous battle.


One study shows that depression and anxiety is consistent in women with breast cancer, often up to five years after remission.


Meanwhile, research determined that 22% of cancer survivors show lifetime PTSD symptoms, with breast cancer patients being the most susceptible.


The first thing to understand? There’s nothing wrong with admitting that you’re struggling and need help.

In fact, asking for support is a sign of strength. It’s part of the reason we’re so dedicated to sharing our regular Survthrivor stories: to remind other women that they’re not alone.


Our community of 200,000+ silver queens and cancer warriors are always there to listen and lend a hand, while you can also find additional support through hobbies, education, mini-goals and more.

Making Post-Cancer Lives Better with Kind Makeup

Speaking of which, Linda continues to use her steady hand and supportive words as a secret weapon to uplift other women.


Now that she’s in remission, she regularly meets up with and provides makeup tips for her fellow cancer warriors!


She may be a pro-age beauty expert who’s used to painting the faces of Hollywood’s elite, but she’s never too busy to help other women feel beautiful in their own skin. Especially since she feels that natural looking makeup can “enhance your look at any age.”

“I wear makeup to enhance not cover up. I have a light hand and found the Prime Products were perfect to help me feel and look my best.”

What’s Linda’s daily routine that she recommends to other silver queens? Check it out:

Do you notice a pattern with these products? Because we sure do!


Linda shares Prime’s passion for all-natural, hypoallergenic, and 100% nourishing cosmetics that protect your beauty long after you remove your makeup.


When it’s not delivering 3x length and volume with zero clumps, PrimeLash Mascara is nutrient dense for long-term lash health.


Meanwhile, PrimeSkin Beauty Water is the hydrating elixir that removes makeup in a single swipe and feeds your skin’s microbiome.

“I started using Prime Lash serum after chemotherapy. I used it daily on my lashes and eyebrows. As my hair grew in (mystery colour, and curly) my eyelashes were growing in. So pleased with the lashes as they are long and thick.”

As for PrimeLash Growth Serum? It’s the go-to for any post-chemo warrior, featuring a multipeptide-packed growth formula to bring lashes back in full force.


One website review from Jodi P. states, “I used this product after chemotherapy and I was amazed at how full my eyelashes grew back. I am still using it 2 years later!”


Additionally, Joanne says “I recently finished chemo & my lashes were just like small stubs. I started using PrimeLash Serum & within 2 weeks my lashes were much better. Since then they are almost back to full length.”


Sounds like magic to us!

Healing, Not Hiding: Follow Linda’s Story

While it’s an honor for us to share Linda’s story of surviving breast cancer, she’s also done a great job of that on her own! For the past year, she’s gone into elaborate detail on Instagram about chemotherapy & radiation, fashion choices, and makeup tips — inspiring countless other silver queens along the way.


What have we learned from her? Countless things. Not only about the importance of early detection with routine mammograms or her incredible life as a pro-makeup artist, but also the power of resilience, positivity, and a strong support system. You are never a burden. And some uplifting words from your friends or sweet snuggles from your dog, like Linda’s adorable new “recovery puppy,” Scotia, can make your recovery that much smoother.


To our queens currently fighting cancer…we and Linda love you! We’re all in this together.

Ready to follow Linda’s adventures on Instagram? Follow @linda.preston_ today. You can also email info@primeprometics.com for general inquiries.

Carly Kazempoor - Prime Team