Every October, you’ve probably noticed a bunch of posts about wearing pink and people asking for donations. That’s because October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time when many come together to talk about breast cancer and support those going through these tough times.
But, why is Breast Cancer Awareness so important?
According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women besides skin cancer. Today, there are more than 3.1 million breast cancer survivors in the United States, including those who are still in treatment, and those who have beaten it. Additionally, one of the highlights of this month is the importance of early screenings. By emphasizing the significance of regular screenings, like mammograms, it helps women identify breast cancer in its early stages, when patients have a higher chance for survival and can be easier. In addition, the month serves as a platform for spreading support to those battling the disease, taking into consideration that breast cancer is not only a physical but also an emotional struggle. Through fundraising events, support groups, and awareness, communities unite to let individuals facing breast cancer know they’re not alone.
So, I conducted an interview with Audrey Todd, current senior, discussing her experiences with her mother’s breast cancer diagnosis.
What advice would you offer to families currently going through breast cancer?
The advice I would offer to families battling through breast cancer with a loved one is to always stick by their side, make them feel loved, and share your feelings with others. Through my mother’s fight with triple-negative breast cancer, the most aggressive and deadly form, I realized that the love and support she received from friends and family was what motivated her to continue to fight. There were many days when my family and I felt crushed because we were not getting the answers we wanted from the doctors, and her fight became extensive. Showing my mother that we were there with her through her treatment was just what she needed to push through. I didn’t understand why my mother had to go through such a deadly disease, but sharing my feelings with the people I trusted, and leaning on others for help allowed my family and me to receive the utmost love from our community. No one should ever be scared to ask for help. It’s the least someone can do when there is an ailment in one’s family.
How has your experience influenced your view on breast cancer awareness as a whole?
My experience of watching a loved one fall ill with breast cancer has completely shaped my views on health. Breast cancer has now affected three generations in my family. It has shown me how crucial it is to regularly go to doctor’s appointments and make sure you are paying attention to your health. Breast cancer is too common, and there needs to be a cure to end this disease. I will continue to fight with other people affected by breast cancer to break through this illness, as well as encourage others to educate themselves on the extent to which breast cancer affects people every day. Watching my mom fight with strength and determination has given me a deep respect for everyone who has battled breast cancer. I stand with everyone affected by cancer, and no one should ever fight alone.
And finally, what is one thing you wish you could tell yourself whenever you first found about your mom?
I wish I could have told myself when I found out my mother had breast cancer that it is normal to be scared. I felt weak and destroyed for so many days because there was nothing I could do to cure her cancer. I had to watch her battle the most aggressive and deadly form of breast cancer, feeling scared about the journey my mother would have to go on to fight for her life. Being emotional was a normal part of my mother’s journey, and acknowledging my feelings didn’t diminish my strength in sticking by her side. In all, I would continue to remind myself to cherish every moment with my mom, celebrate her successes through her battle, and continually remind her of the good she is doing in the world to bring awareness to breast cancer. My mother fought for over a year, and to this day, each day is a new opportunity to make memories.
Ultimately, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a call to action. The tons of pink ribbons and various events serve as strong reminders that everyone can play a role. Whether it’s through regular checkups, participating in charity runs, or donating, the month inspires those in the battle against breast cancer and together brings communities closer.
Sources:
“What Is Breast Cancer?” National Breast Cancer Foundation, www.nationalbreastcancer.org/what-is-breast-cancer/. Accessed 8 Oct. 2023.
National Breast Cancer Foundation. “Breast Cancer Awareness Month.” National Breast Cancer Foundation, www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-awareness-month/. Accessed 8 Oct. 2023.
