photo from Susan G. Komen Foundation
October 1st. As a child October meant two things to me -- a long weekend from school as we celebrated Thanksgiving on the second Monday of the month and Halloween of course.
Until four years ago October was really just another month, the true beginning of autumn, changing leaves, a lot of raking, probably a cold, and me, missing summer.
Now October is all about Breast Cancer Awareness. I want people to be aware ... men and women. Men develop breast cancer as well and although the percentage is low it happens. It is also a time for men to be aware for the women in their lives.
If you aren't doing a regular breast self exam...start now. For women who have not reached the age of menopause you do it the day you notice you have stopped menstruating. For those who have reached menopause make it the first day of each month. Don't know how to do a proper breast self exam...check here. To view a video of this exam, check here. I can't make it any easier for you -- click and go. Please.
If you notice something unusual during an examination, make the call to have it checked out. Don't put it off. Of course it's scary and frightening. Of course you don't want to know that it "might" be cancer. Better to have it checked out and know for certain. Most lumps and unusual tissue are cysts or benign tumours. But you can't know that if you haven't made the call.
If you are of an age where you can start having mammograms according to your health care provider, please book one.
It takes no time at all to do these tests. Do it to make sure that you still have time in which to live and enjoy your life.
one of my beautiful roses in full blush
14 comments:
Yes men too!
What a positive and truthful post! This is awareness and I love it! I will think of you on october 6th when i have my first mammogram. thank you dear friend, thank you.
xo
Great idea, Sherry Lee. Here is my contribution to Pink Thursday.
http://extravagantpurse.blogspot.com/2009/10/pink-thoughts.
(((Muaahhh)))
Such a great reminder...
My college roommate had breast cancer at 35...there has been no end to her troubles (brain tumors are the latest) but she is still my D and still beautiful and still a woman...and I celebrate her life every day. I am wishing you joy and light and peace, not just in October but every day. That rose is so beautiful. And you are too.
Enjoy the day!
Erin
Such important stuff ... we so need to keep reminding everyone to ... feel the boobies.
Important information that men should pay attention to also. One of my favorite patients (in another lifetime) was a man with breast cancer.
Thank you for this serious reminder for all of us. Very well written. Not to make light of it at all, but I wanted to share this with you: My 86-year-old Mommy has never had a mammogram, and the doctor told her to get one. Her reply was, "Why should I? My hubby checks them every day". Daddy is 88!!!!! TMI! Again, thanks for reminding all of us. **blows kisses** Deb
Great post! I will have to do this pink thingy also. I borrowed your video for facebook.
Now I'm off to find something pink. Shouldn't be too hard.
Thanks for being such an educator Sherry Lee. The work you do here for us all is so important.
This can't be said enough...
I just sent you an email regarding Pay It Forward and just wanted to double-check that you got it. If you could confirm, that would be great. Thanks!
Thank you for the reminder. You know, if only there were a buddy system. Sometimes it gets tough to go on your own. But, go, I will.
Spreading the word and keeping it out there is what we all need and to be reminded !
I notice you`ve raised $128 so far !! clapping hands for you !!
xoxo
lovely...it's so wonderful to see pink all over the blogosphere.
what a great cause to raise awareness.
Post a Comment