NBCAM: Check Your Boobs – mine tried to kill me

National Breast Cancer Month is observed every October. It aims to raise awareness about breast cancer. The campaign promotes early detection. It also supports research and education efforts.

Check your boobs – mine tried to kill me. 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Men get diagnosed with breast cancer too – so this is not only for women. Only a fraction of the diagnosed have the genetics or family history. Self-exams and screenings save lives – it has mine so far. Mine was caught by self-exam and then diagnostic mammogram.

Before diagnosis
Day 171
September 19, 2025 –
25 months after diagnosis

It has not been an easy road, but I am still here. I’ve had two surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation, and continue on cancer meds with terrible side effects that I’m living with daily.

Modern medicine and continued research are improving survival rates. Unfortunately, cuts to medical research here in the U.S. are discouraging. I’m hoping common sense will prevail. Mine and millions of other lives are counting on it. Early detection and evolving treatments save lives. Hopefully, I will eventually be declared NED. I aspire to live out a normal life span. I hope I get that lucky. But my voice is just one in the multitude.

So I’m encouraging everyone to do self-exams and get screenings. And, get involved.

How to Get Involved

Individuals can participate in National Breast Cancer Month by:

  • Getting Screened: Schedule regular mammograms and encourage others to do the same.
  • Donating: Support organizations that fund breast cancer research and provide patient assistance.
  • Spreading Awareness: Share information on social media and join in local events to raise awareness about breast cancer. By participating in these activities, everyone can join the fight against breast cancer. They can also support those affected by the disease.

Last October a former manager of mine participated in a local Walk / Run for breast cancer in my name. I was moved to tears when he told me. Every act of kindness is monumental when you’re in this fight. Like when my husband and bonus son shaved their heads when I lost my hair. Headscarves from a local fraternity. Hope boxes from the cancer care network, my aunt, and my bestie. Food from my neighbors and friends. My brother, sister, niece, and cousin who went on hospital trips with Chris and me. For those of us fighting the battle, we appreciate all of these things more than words can say.

P.S. I’m going to be sharing extra inspiration throughout October. I want to encourage anyone who comes across my blog to get checked.

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