It’s October. Breast Cancer Awareness month. Time for me to get on my soapbox.

A few months ago, I found out the sister of a friend had been diagnosed with breast cancer. She wanted to talk to me. She wanted to know about my journey. We talked and shared our journeys. At the end she asked me if there was anything I wished I had done differently.

I wish I had read more about breast cancer when I was first diagnosed. I wish I had found someone to reach out to as she had with me so I could have some idea of what to expect. I wish I had joined an online group where I could read about others’ experiences and possibly ask questions. A lot of people don’t want to talk about it, but I notice some celebrities are talking about their diagnoses. It really helped me to know what others have gone through. No two diagnoses are the same, but it helps to hear what others have gone through.

I started out with one hospital and switched to a cancer hospital when I felt I wasn’t being given enough information. I wish I had done that sooner. When you’re diagnosed you immediately go dark. Eventually you realize there is hope and that a positive outlook is very important.

I’m a survivor. I’m here to say don’t forget to schedule that mammogram. If you do self-exams and don’t feel anything you still need a mammogram. If something is found it’s very easy to go to that dark place. Just know that hope is a key emotion to have and it’s okay to talk about your diagnosis.

Again, it’s October. Have you scheduled or had your mammogram?

#breastcancerawareness    #cancersucks    #hope    #pinkribbon    #cancersurvivor