October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and I am always grateful to celebrate this month as a Breast Cancer Survivor of almost 12 years! This year to celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness month, I got to spend some time with other breast cancer survivors on my podcast, Step into the Pivot as we talked through the courage that we gained through our breast cancer journeys. (link to the entire episode is at the end of this post)
We talked about how we are open to learning, especially when it comes to something like breast cancer that we cannot control. There is always the shock of the diagnosis and the strength to continually show up even when undergoing treatment. We are human and with that comes fear and uncertainty but also hope! We also know that others care but why is it so hard to ask for help or just someone to talk to? One way you can help someone who is going through any type of health challenge is to check in regularly, seeing if they need anything or just be there to listen.
When we share our stories, we remind ourselves how this diagnosis changed our priorities, strengthened our relationships and deepened our appreciation for life. I absolutely know that this is true for me! Others need to know that we are survivors so that when they are diagnosed, they see that you are a survivor and know that they can be too!
Your call to action is to schedule your annual mammogram, whether that is for you or for someone you love. Breast cancer mortality has decreased 40% since 1990 thanks to the use of mammography. This should be done annually starting at age 40. Early detection is key, as the survival rate for early-stage breast cancer is over 99%.
Wearing Pink during the month of October is more than just the color but instead it’s about us…we have survived and are sharing our strength and resilience as we move into the future.
Step into the Pivot Episode 90: Breast Cancer Awareness: More Than One Story – Step Into The Pivot
