As the autumn leaves begin to transform and seasonal attractions like corn mazes and haunted houses emerge, October arrives—a month synonymous with National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Established in 1985, this annual health initiative strives to enhance awareness about breast cancer while generating funds for research, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and ultimately, a cure.
This month serves as a poignant reminder to honor those who have battled this disease, commemorate those we have lost, and support those currently fighting. It also highlights the sobering statistics surrounding breast cancer, which affects individuals across the nation. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 247,000 new breast cancer cases are expected to be diagnosed in women in 2016, with an estimated 40,000 fatalities resulting from the disease. Moreover, breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women, trailing only heart disease as the primary cause of death in females, as reported by the CDC.
While these figures can be alarming, I carry a personal narrative of hope. The American Cancer Society notes that there are around 2.8 million breast cancer survivors in the United States today. I am proud to be part of that statistic as a 31-year-old survivor of breast cancer.
Every October brings back memories of my family’s own struggles with this disease. It’s not just one or two cases; my great aunt, grandmother, and mother have all faced this battle. My personal journey began at age 25 when I started screening for breast cancer, particularly after discovering, in 2014, that I was a carrier of the BRCA1 genetic mutation. In June 2015, during a routine mammogram, I received troubling news from the radiologist, and in that moment, my life changed forever—I was diagnosed with breast cancer.
For me, October signifies not just the arrival of fall or Breast Cancer Awareness Month; it marks 17 years since my mother succumbed to breast and ovarian cancer. Her fight, reminiscent of mine, was not one she chose but met with remarkable grace. Recently, I unearthed a small box filled with my mother’s cherished possessions—not valuable jewelry or silverware, but a collection of heartfelt letters written by my grandmother during her own cancer battle in the 1960s.
These letters, penned from Ann Arbor, Michigan, where my grandmother sought chemotherapy, were filled with emotion and hope. She expressed her desire for normalcy and her belief in the potential breakthroughs of treatment—3% of patients experiencing cures at that time. This was a glimmer of hope for her and her family, and it resonates deeply with me today, nearly five decades later. We have made significant strides, yet the journey continues.
As I gaze at my children and nieces and nephews, I occasionally feel overwhelmed by the fear that they too may face this relentless disease. However, I find solace in my grandmother’s words, my mother’s courage, and the progress we’ve achieved over the years.
I urge you to take a moment for self-examination. It takes only a minute, yet it could be life-saving. If your family has a history of cancer, consider genetic testing. Consult your healthcare provider about mammography and preventive strategies. Be your own advocate; nobody knows your body better than you. Moreover, inspire those around you to take action as well.
My journey doesn’t end here. Thanks to the resilience of survivors before me, it’s just beginning. I am determined to ensure that my children, nieces, and nephews never have to confront cancer. October should not just symbolize Breast Cancer Awareness Month; it should represent the daily battles fought by individuals and the ongoing quest for a healthier future.
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In summary, October is a month of reflection, awareness, and hope. It serves as a reminder of the strength of survivors and the importance of ongoing research and advocacy in the fight against breast cancer.
Keyphrase: Breast Cancer Awareness Month
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