“Yesterday I dared to struggle. Today I dare to win.” -Bernadette Devlin
This time of the year truly hits home, as I am surrounded by warriors on a daily basis who have made it their mission to not let a diagnosis determine their fate. A breast cancer diagnosis can be debilitating. It causes many women to live in fear. It is part of my role to allow them a safe space to share their experience and comfort them the best way possible. I let them know they are part of a tribe that have conquered breast cancer in the past and persevered. When caught early, breast cancer can be effectively treated. According to the American Cancer Society, when breast cancer is detected early, and is in the localized stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%.
Early detection includes doing monthly breast self-exams, and scheduling regular clinical breast exams and mammograms. I cannot stress enough the importance of being proactive for your own health. Schedule those annual mammograms and do the preventative work so you are ahead of it.
One of the best parts about my job is I get to help women feel whole again and to help regain their confidence. That creates a bond that is unbreakable. I want them to know I am always here for them, throughout their entire journey.
Let’s continue the work to support each other and to encourage each other to never give up. It’s the energy in the masses that keeps us all going and reach for positivity and hope. It’s a great time to get involved in local events and advocate for the women you know who are fighting the battle of their lives.
