As I prepare dinner for my son, he gives me that familiar look: “Mom! My food is touching!” He has a strong aversion to his food mingling on the plate. Each item must have its designated space, as if life’s culinary experiences should always be neatly contained—never allowing ketchup to mix with salad. But that’s not how life works; sometimes, the ketchup will inevitably touch the salad. “You’ll have to deal with it,” I respond a bit too quickly. “Life can’t always be separated neatly.” This statement rings true not only for dinner but also for many aspects of life.
Recently, it seems that everything has collided—both the messy and the beautiful. Our family gathered to celebrate the Jewish New Year, my daughter lost her first tooth, I marked my 37th birthday, and we finally named our baby just days before she turned eight months. Amidst these joyful moments, I found myself waiting for a phone call, enjoying the festivities but with a lingering thought: What if?
Two weeks ago, I underwent my first baseline mammogram. Statistically, I possess minimal risk factors for breast cancer: I’m 37, have no family history of the disease, and I don’t smoke. However, I have two significant risk factors—my breasts. The underlying reality is stark: having breasts means there is always some level of risk.
The doctors reassured me that the spot identified on my mammogram appeared “friendly,” but they admitted they lacked definitive evidence to support that intuition. They couldn’t locate it on the ultrasound either. The prevailing recommendation was to wait six months and reassess, but they also acknowledged that it might not be benign. I realized I couldn’t endure six months of uncertainty after just six days of anxiety, compounded by stress-eating tater tots. I needed clarity.
For me, clarity meant opting for a stereotactic biopsy. With the Jewish New Year, my birthday, and the baby naming all approaching, I found myself lying on a table last week with my right breast suspended through an opening. The procedure lasted about 90 minutes, leaving me feeling as if I had been hit by a truck. And then, I was left in suspense.
This waiting period led me to reflect on how, throughout my 37 years, I had never taken the time to perform a breast self-exam. The process of thoroughly checking each breast would likely take no more than a minute. Yet, I always found excuses—rushing through showers, answering emails, preparing meals, or simply tending to my family’s needs. At what point did I decide to prioritize my children’s well-being above my own health?
It’s crucial for women to prioritize their health—not just for the sake of their families but for their own sake. Society often bombards women with messages about taking care of their health for their children, partners, or jobs. The truth is that women must value their health independently. They are important not just as mothers or daughters but simply because they exist. Taking care of oneself should be a priority on the ever-expanding to-do list.
As I enter my 37th year, I encourage you to consider these belated birthday wishes:
- Conduct a breast exam today. It doesn’t need to be perfect; just look for any changes. Mammograms generally begin at age 40, but significant changes can occur before then. Regular checks are essential.
- Remind yourself to perform these exams regularly. There are several helpful apps available, such as Keep a Breast and Your Man Reminder, to assist you in this regard.
- If you’re 40 or older, ensure your mammogram is scheduled. If you’re younger than 40, consult your healthcare provider about the possibility of a baseline mammogram.
- Consider donating to breast cancer research. I am contributing to various organizations, and every bit helps.
- Share this message with anyone you know who has breasts. Empower them to prioritize their health simply because they matter.
After a long six days of waiting, I received a call from my doctor: it was just a lymph node, nothing to worry about. I’ll return in six months for a follow-up. I didn’t feel like I escaped a bullet; rather, I felt awakened, reminded to take care of myself. I am filled with hope, and I now carry a titanium clip in my breast, marking where the doctors have been. In truth, we are all marked in some way.
So, take charge of your health today. You matter.
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Summary:
This article emphasizes the importance of women’s health and self-examination, sharing personal experiences and encouraging readers to prioritize their own well-being. It calls for women to take charge of their health, dispelling the notion that they must always put others first. The piece offers practical advice, including conducting self-exams, scheduling mammograms, and supporting breast cancer research.
Keyphrase: women’s health and self-examination
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