October 22, 2023
As the crisp air of autumn settles in and the scenery transforms with vibrant hues, it’s clear that October has arrived. This month, the nation turns a lovely shade of pink in honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Established in 1985, this annual campaign aims to elevate awareness about breast cancer while generating funds for research, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and ultimately, a cure.
October is a time for honoring the brave souls who have battled this disease, cherishing the memories of those we’ve lost, and lending support to those currently fighting. Yet, it also serves as a poignant reminder of the stark realities surrounding this illness that impacts both men and women across the country. The American Cancer Society predicts that in 2023, nearly 250,000 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed among women, with approximately 40,000 fatalities. Breast cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women, trailing only heart disease, according to data from the CDC.
While these statistics may seem daunting, I have a story that embodies hope. On the brighter side of these numbers, the American Cancer Society estimates that approximately 2.9 million breast cancer survivors are living in the United States today. I am proud to be one of them—a 32-year-old breast cancer survivor, and this is a glimpse into my journey.
Each October brings back memories of my family’s ongoing battle with this disease. It’s not just a single case; my great aunt, grandmother, mother, and I have all faced this challenge. Knowing our family history, I began regular screenings at 25. In 2014, I learned that I carried the BRCA1 genetic mutation. In June 2015, during a routine mammogram, the radiologist expressed concerns, and my heart sank. I had two young children and a loving husband at home, with dreams yet to be fulfilled. Deep down, I feared the worst: breast cancer.
For me, October is more than just a seasonal change or a month to promote breast cancer awareness; it’s a symbol of resilience, marking 18 years since I lost my mother to breast and ovarian cancer. Her journey, much like mine, was a fight she never chose but faced with incredible strength. Recently, I stumbled upon a box filled with my mother’s treasured belongings. Among them were heartfelt letters my grandmother wrote to her during the 1960s while undergoing cancer treatment.
These letters, sent from Ann Arbor, Michigan, where my grandmother received early chemotherapy, were priceless. They revealed her hopes for her children and her belief in medical advancements. One poignant excerpt read, “All I want to do is lead a normal life. I hope that none of your children will ever have what I have. I have been fighting. I believe that this chemotherapy is a breakthrough.”
Reading her words repeatedly has been both uplifting and heartbreaking. To my grandmother, a 3% cure rate represented hope, and it’s incredible to see how far we’ve come since then. Yet, we still have challenges to overcome. I often look at my children and feel a wave of anxiety that they might one day face this disease. Then, I reflect on my family’s legacy, the advancements made, and it reassures me, igniting my hope.
Take a moment today to perform a self-examination. It takes just a minute, but it could save your life. If cancer runs in your family, consider genetic testing and consult your doctor about mammograms and preventive measures. Advocate for yourself—no one knows your body better than you do. Encourage your loved ones to do the same; you might just save their life too.
My journey doesn’t end here. Thanks to the courage of those who came before me, it is only the beginning. I am committed to ensuring that my children, nieces, and nephews will never face the day when cancer becomes a part of their lives. Breast cancer awareness is not confined to October; it is defined by the fighters and the advancements made for a brighter future. For more information on home insemination and to explore fertility supplements, check out resources like this blog and this site.
In summary, while we honor those affected by breast cancer, it’s essential to remain proactive in our health journeys, support advancements in research, and cherish the stories of hope that inspire us all.