As October is coming closer, means another breast cancer awareness month with buildings and bridges aglow in pink. We’ll all probably start seeing pinker on TV commercials and our favorite products, but what that means we were not thinking about breast cancer in other months or the cancer survivor will only cure in the month of October.
While Breast Cancer Awareness Month is only October but that doesn’t mean that our fight against breast cancer is in only October. What about rest of the year, breast cancer is something we all need to be aware of all year round.
Twenty-five years ago, in the United States, 110 women died of breast cancer every day. Twenty-five years and billions of private and public research dollars later, that number is 110. Every day, not much progress, is it?
To help you keep breast cancer awareness in mind January through December here are a few action items you can do every month in the coming year.
November- Take a Breast Cancer Awareness Quiz.
What’s your breast cancer IQ? Take this informative quiz, you’ll learn about the ties between breast cancer and family history, male breast cancer, and even mammograms.
When was the last time you had a mammogram? There are differing beliefs on when women should start mammograms and how often they need them, but most health providers agree that mammograms are an essential tool for catching breast cancer early. If you’re overdue for your mammogram, schedule one today. Even if you have breast implants you still need mammograms.
January- Hit the Gym.
February- Breast Self-Exams save Lives
Do you know what your normal breast looks and feels like? Breast self-exams are easy to do and can be done in the comfort and privacy of your own home.
March- Love Your Breasts.
When we think about breast cancer suddenly our breasts become something to be afraid of. Shed the fear and love your breasts. If you aren’t happy with the size or shape of your breasts, come to talk with us about breast implants. Your breasts are something to celebrate, even if they can get cancer.
April- Donate
Breast cancer awareness and research are expensive and the many wonderful charities working hard to fight the disease need our help. If you can, consider making a donation to your favorite breast cancer charity.
May- Eat Healthy.
The breast reconstruction decision is a tough one for many breast cancer survivors to make. The procedure is often misunderstood and many women don’t know their options. In June learn about it so if you or a loved one are ever faced with the decision you’ll know where to turn for answers.
July- Take a Walk.
August- Quit Smoking.
Smoking isn’t good for your health and we all know it. Make the commitment to stop smoking. Try and try again if you struggle or slip up. Quitting tobacco is hard, but you can do it. Your breasts will thank you.
September- Share your Voice.
You can make a difference in the fight against breast cancer without ever leaving your own home. Share your voice by connecting and sharing with breast cancer organizations online using social media tools like Facebook and Twitter.
October- Breast Cancer Awareness Month
After a year of breast cancer awareness activities, October will likely hold new meaning for you. Use this Breast Cancer Awareness Month to educate friends and family and to renew your commitment to fighting breast cancer.
It is time to get real about ending breast cancer. Take all of that energy pushing for awareness and let’s come together to achieve the deadline. It’s time to give up hope and take up action.
Otherwise, how will you remember breast cancer all year round?
Pamela Acker
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