Friday, October 4, 2013

Surivivng Breast Cancer Awareness Month

I was catching up on Downton Abbey this week, and was surprised that one of the characters had a breast cancer scare. It got me curious and so I did a tad bit of research (google and wikipedia - I'm so ivy-league) on the history of breast cancer and learned more about how long it has been plaguing women and how its status as a taboo topic (maybe they should have called it "mammary cancer"?) led to its danger as women feared to talk about it, investigate their symptoms, and get treatment.

That was actually helpful for my attitude going into this month. Because, the pink. The NFL and their stupid pink towels (Cleveland Browns, you did not look cute last night). The pressure at Kroger that if I don't pick the pink thing, I'm against breast cancer awareness. It boiled over inside me when I saw a commercial for pink 5 hour energy drinks. They're not all offensive, but I find this one about "good deeds" to be so. A company that exists to make money by selling stimulants (whether or not they're harmless is up to you to decide) should not in my opinion imply that it is a "good deed" to buy their product. This is not awareness, and it is not - as far as I can tell - "help." It's marketing.




You certainly know someone, knew someone, or know a friend of a friend who has been affected by breast cancer. By all means, let this month inspire you to reach out and help them or honor them with your help. But, I would encourage you to be creative with your help and not buy everything that's being sold to you in a pink package.

I was recently introduced to Pink Ribbon Girls, a local organization that actively serves and helps young survivors of breast cancer in my area. It does so in specific and concrete ways - including meals, rides, babysitting, house cleaning, etc for women in treatment. It's not vague. Do you have an organization in your area that could use your generosity to help women who need it?

If your area doesn't have something like Pink Ribbon Girls, and you'd like to help Breast Cancer patients, call or stop by a local oncology center. Ask the nurses there if they know of any needs that you could help with. Ask which organization or church they see around a lot helping people, and see if you can partner with them.

And one more thing. Do not, ever, in my presence, say "Save the Ta-tas." This I find repulsive. For goodness' sake, save the women. The ta-tas? Most women I know who have had breast cancer would quickly sacrifice her "ta-tas" for a few more years with her kids, or for the chance to have kids. If we make the fight against cancer about boobs, we are taking this whole thing way beyond "awareness," and into objectification. Sure, it's a sort-of catchy slogan that works on a tshirt (or a million tshirts), but it completely misses the point. Breast cancer awareness shouldn't be about boobs - it should be about lives and health, and women - mothers and daughters and sisters who deserve to live with or without their "ta-tas."

Ok, well thank you for indulging my rant about Breast Cancer Awareness month. Thank you, Susan G Komen, and the NFL and all the others who have made it ok to say "breast cancer" out loud. Now that we are all more aware, let's focus on the women who live with it, their families, the doctors and nurses that take care of them, the researchers who press on, the foundations who fund them, and the volunteers who give up their free time to serve others.

Oh, and I know it's a pain in the butt to comment on this blog, but if I have misrepresented anything here, please try to correct me. Also, I'd love if you use the comments section on this post to link to organizations or groups that interested readers can support.

And, let's not forget the less sexy body parts that are affected by cancer - brains (should be the sexiest!), ovaries, prostates, skin, thyroids, lungs, bonesmesothelium, obviously there's more but Annie's waking up from her nap.

xoxo

74 comments:

  1. Amen! I'm not a pink stuff fan and I despise "save the ta-tas." My mother and grandmother died of breast cancer. We have enough awareness. We. Are. Aware. Let's do something about it.

    Kathy in Maryland

    ReplyDelete
  2. Well does that mean I have to return the biking jersey I just bought yesterday that happened to be white with a Susan Komen pink ribbon on sale for $20 in order to be friends. I normally hate the color PINK anyway, but I wanted a white jersey to match my new biking shorts. Can we still be friends? Yes I have been manipulated, I mean marketed to say "Save the ta-tas" because it is clever, but I am appreciating and listening VERY closely to learn from you and others. For whatever reason I forget and don't feel connected to any of the cancer research talk stuff even after watching my father die of melanoma. Go figure. I could just be in numb mode I guess. Love love love your humor, honesty and the pithy way you combine the two. Thanks for enlightening and encouraging us to think broader. Much love.

    ReplyDelete
  3. ((((SUSIE))))

    I have always been a pink ribbon campaign kinda girl ....

    that is until my Mom was diagnosed with Stage 3a COLON CANCER this summer!!!

    I now wear BLUE in honor of my MOM and all those who have had COLON CANCER touch their lives!!!

    AND PLEASE GET YOUR COLONOSCOPY!!! IT WILL SAVE YOUR LIFE!!!!



    ReplyDelete
  4. Thanks for taking the time to write and share. That is really open of you to want to hear other peoples perspectives/experiences. I would love to share a pdf of a chapter from a book I read when doing research, the chapter is called Profits of Cancer, Murder by Injection.

    I had breast cancer (age 41 then) 3 years ago, after a double mastectomy, no radiation, no chemo, underewnt reconstructive surgery...about almost a 2 year saga: I say NO to pink, no to supporting Susan Komen....in this arena my vote is NO CONFIDENCE.

    When I had cancer at age 3 and had radiation treatment to my abdomen (at that time radiation scattered), enough radiation so that 36 years later breast cancer showed up. My radiologist and oncologist told me that due to the radiation treatment I received as a child that all of my breast tissue cells had been genetically modified (changed the cellular/molecular structure..kind of like microwaving your food - don't do it) and would over time turn into cancerous cells.

    Hence, the radiologist said I could not receive any further radiation because my skin would become necrotic (basically die and fall off). So my point here is the radiation a person receives has a cumulative effect over time.

    The cumulative build-up of radiation (i.e., repeated doses) is a huge part of why it’s dangerous. Breast tissue (in men and women), lungs and skin are the most susceptible. A very good reason to bypass the TSA scanners at the airport regardless of what “they” tell you…how harmless it is.

    BTW, it was not a mammogram that showed me I had breast cancer, I found the lump and it was confirmed via an ultrasound. I had my 1st mammogram at age 35 for a baseline. I’ll never have another because I don’t have any breast tissue but if I had a choice I would never have another mammogram again.

    Here are some informative articles.
    http://www.naturalnews.com/033458_mammography_dangers.html
    http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/162170.php
    http://www.newswithviews.com/Howenstine/james42.htm

    I would be happy to forward that pdf document...very insightful....btw, that's not the only source I found.

    ReplyDelete
  5. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  6. This is Nancy Stanley, Wendi Stanley's Aunt-in-law, writing. BTW, each person has to choose what is best for them, what they can live with, etc. It's very personal and trusting God in it all is #1.

    ReplyDelete
  7. Susie, I just have to tell you how much I agree. I support causes I feel strongly about through my direct donations and actions, NOT by buying a pink-topped box of crackers. Corporate "good deeds marketing" makes me frustrated for the many people who buy into it as anything more than a ploy to get more sales. (not that their donations aren't great, but if you do it to show off, it says a lot about your motivation). You go girl! ;) Sarah

    ReplyDelete
  8. Combination therapies can be administered at the same time (simultaneously), one after the other (sequentially), or in alternating cycles.
    gynecomastia treatment

    ReplyDelete
  9. The majority of implants are placed under the breast and on top of the pectoral muscle.
    brestrogen amazon

    ReplyDelete
  10. The majority of implants are placed under the breast and on top of the pectoral muscle. If there is very little tissue thickness at the top of the breasts, it may be more appropriate to place them under the pectoral muscle. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages.
    sizegenix malaysia

    ReplyDelete
  11. It is a stretchable fabric which places some amount of pressure on the area, making your chest look flat. Some also use the double t-shirt technique to cover up the bulge. Others believe that wearing printed shirts can also mask the problem. gynecomastiapro.com

    ReplyDelete
  12. Breast enhancement surgery is extremely popular within this era. Payudara

    ReplyDelete
  13. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  14. The vital information in this blogs has allured me.bands for pull ups

    ReplyDelete
  15. Your blogs stuff is purely enough for me personally www.gympros.com.

    ReplyDelete
  16. These women noticed immediate gains after using BRAVA and enjoy rapid growth breast enlargement. Meanwhile, there were women who noticed gains within the first few days of wearing BRAVA and slowly accumulate tissue growth. They are the average responders…lustaci.com

    ReplyDelete
  17. There are two types of implants - saline and silicone implants. Both of these implants have an external shell made of silicone.Dr Terrence Scamp

    ReplyDelete
  18. I was ready to bid farewell to my mother suffering from skin cancer for years with heavy heart but got new hopes for her since the day I discussed her condition with the doctors at CBD International.

    ReplyDelete
  19. You make so many great points here that I read your article a couple of times. Your views are in accordance with my own for the most part. This is great content for your readers. https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/hope4cancerreviews/index.html Hope4Cancer

    ReplyDelete
  20. This identity is defined in comparison to healthy living cells that are small (black dots) with a wall-like perimeter surrounding them. The large black-dotted nuclei has no such wall. Ayurvedic treatment for cancer in Mumbai

    ReplyDelete
  21. that is in fact a clean to attain to and informative, containing all advocate and moreover has a satisfying impact taking place for the complement era. thank you for sharing it, https://asbestoscancer.org/stage-four-mesothelioma/

    ReplyDelete
  22. Nice post. I learn some thing very complicated on different blogs everyday. Most commonly it is stimulating you just read content off their writers and rehearse a specific thing from their website. I’d would prefer to use some while using content on my small weblog whether or not you do not mind. Natually I’ll provide you with a link on your web weblog. Appreciate your sharing. Click Here

    ReplyDelete
  23. To wash down the framework all in all assemblage of poisons, numerous individuals do detox treatment. call rehab center in

    ReplyDelete
  24. I have a hard time describing my thoughts on content, but I really felt I should here. Your article is really great. I like the way you wrote this information. https://asbestoscancer.org/stage-four-mesothelioma/

    ReplyDelete
  25. Now this is not really unusual for me since I normally have quite lumpy breasts, especially as that time of the month gets closer. breast augmentation

    ReplyDelete
  26. The other nearby treatment is the utilization of radiation treatment. Radiation treatment includes utilization of a high vitality radiation shaft to demolish the cancer cells.The Asbestos Cancer Organization

    ReplyDelete
  27. Nice blog and absolutely outstanding. You can do something much better but i still say this perfect.Keep trying for the best. Free cancer care packages

    ReplyDelete
  28. I am happy to find your distinguished way of writing the post. Now you make it easy for me to understand and implement the concept. Thank you for the post. surgeongate.org/michigan-plastic-surgery/michigan-breast-augmentation/

    ReplyDelete
  29. This was really an interesting topic and I kinda agree with what you have mentioned here! hip hop video promotion

    ReplyDelete
  30. It was so convincing and touching to even read through the first few lines of the invitation. Surely, the uk essay writers online were right about this moving work. I personally love it and find it very applicable Read Full Article!

    ReplyDelete
  31. Very useful post. This is my first time i visit here. I found so many interesting stuff in your blog especially its discussion. Really its great article. Keep it up. recovery time from breast reduction surgery

    ReplyDelete
  32. The words are strong. God has a plan and a lifetime to strengthen our faith. Let the miracle begin! gynectrol gnc, male breast reduction pills

    ReplyDelete
  33. It is very helpful information that you shared with us. Want to know more about Breast Augmentation.

    Breast Augmentation Denver

    ReplyDelete
  34. Thank you for sharing such a nice blog with useful information. I want to know more about breast augmentation.
    breast augmentation

    ReplyDelete
  35. It is perfect time to make some plans for the future and it is time to be happy. I've read this post and if I could I desire to suggest you some interesting things or suggestions. Perhaps you could write next articles referring to this article. I want to read more things about it!
    https://asbestoscancer.org/epithelioid-mesothelioma/

    ReplyDelete
  36. I like viewing web sites which comprehend the price of delivering the excellent useful resource free of charge. I truly adored reading your posting. Thank you! ซิลิโคนหลังผ่าตัดเต้าน

    ReplyDelete
  37. I really loved reading your blog. It was very well authored and easy to understand. Unlike additional blogs I have read which are really not that good. I also found your posts very interesting. In fact after reading, I had to go show it to my friend and he enjoyed it as well!
    word to pdf converter online free

    ReplyDelete
  38. definately enjoy every little bit of it and I have you bookmarked to check out new stuff of your blog a must read blog! breast

    ReplyDelete
  39. Make the most of mainly premium substances - you will find him or her for: inflammation

    ReplyDelete
  40. Did we both utilize the term PCP in depicting our relationship? Indeed. 6) Did the inhabitant attempt to help me in acquiring a restorative arrangement to see him? Indeed! With these answers, any official courtroom will perceive on the off chance that it would appear that a duck, swims like a duck, and quacks like a duck, at that point it is a duck.best lawn mowers on doctor gardening

    ReplyDelete
  41. The Pink Ribbon Foundation is fronted by the Estee Lauder gathering of organizations (known for beautifying agents and skincare). Breast Cancer

    ReplyDelete
  42. Replenish 360 offers one of the most affordable wellness and preventative services that are personalized and one of the most activating one-of-a-kind IV drip and infusions, vitamin and antioxidant supplementation, micronutrient therapy, and other additional supplementary wellness services to “renew your body, refresh your mind, and restore performance.” IV Therapy Palm Springs

    ReplyDelete
  43. If however you have no problem as far as self restraint is concerned, this might not be the pill for you. Resurge supplement review

    ReplyDelete
  44. This is very educational content and written well for a change. It's nice to see that some people still understand how to write a quality post.! Breast cancer

    ReplyDelete
  45. It should be noted that whilst ordering papers for sale at paper writing service, you can get unkind attitude. In case you feel that the bureau is trying to cheat you, don't buy term paper from it. cronache pescara

    ReplyDelete
  46. This will compel it to scallop, or wave around the external edge, making a scope of different issues. Breast augmentation Singapore

    ReplyDelete

  47. شركة التميز الجنوبي للخدمات المنزلية الشركة لديها افضل الخدمات المنزلية القادرة على التخلص من كافة المشاكل الكبيرة التي يحتجها العميل لذلك يمكنك ان تتواصل مع شركة التميز الجنوبي عبر بعض من خدماتها التالية : -

    شركة عزل خزانات بابها

    شركة عزل اسطح بابها

    شركة تنظيف منازل بابها

    شركة كشف تسربات المياه بابها


    شركة تنظيف مدارس بابها





    شركة رش دفان بابها

    ReplyDelete
  48. In spite of the fact that there are around 70 excitotoxins, Nitrosamines (Sodium Nitrite), Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) and Aspartame are the most perilous, and are the fundamental "added substance executioners" answerable for cancer and other degenerative infections. how to take cbd tincture

    ReplyDelete
  49. At the point when Andrea asked me what I would prescribe to battle her cancer I would not like to take any risks or any dangers. what are high cbd strains

    ReplyDelete
  50. One woman in eight who lives to age 85 will develop breast cancer at some time during her life. Breast Cancer

    ReplyDelete
  51. Great write-up, I am a big believer in commenting on blogs to inform the blog writers know that they’ve added something worthwhile to the world wide web!.. Medical Billing Practices

    ReplyDelete
  52. One in every twenty-eight women is suffering from this kind of cancer, however, breast cancer in men has been never shedding light upon. Most of us don’t even know that men are also vulnerable to breast cancer because every little has been exposed to this topic.

    ReplyDelete
  53. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  54. рак Thank you because you have been willing to share information with us. we will always appreciate all you have done here because I know you are very concerned with our.

    ReplyDelete
  55. Great post! I am actually getting ready to cross this information, and it is very helpful my friend. Also great blog here with all of the valuable information you have. Keep up the good work you are doing here.
    Breast augmentation Singapore

    ReplyDelete
  56. It is essential to apprehend that during buying incapacity coverage, you're buying a felony agreement among you and the coverage business enterprise.disability stories

    ReplyDelete
  57. The Money Spent On Research Into Breast Cancer Is Not Ensuring That Less Women Get Breast Cancer.
    fat grafting Singapore

    ReplyDelete
  58. Afterwards fresh associates and also website visitors are usually welcome and also sobriety anniversaries commemorated. AA Meeting Near Me

    ReplyDelete
  59. For the not many that do, they are typically restricted to a couple of early on courses. motiva breast augmentation

    ReplyDelete
  60. Patient' with various types of cancer(s) have been restored by the utilization of medications!"custom wigs for cancer patients

    ReplyDelete
  61. Thanks for posting this information. it is very useful, now I am informing you Foreign travelers can now apply for Indian tourist visa online. It is a very easy and straightforward process.

    ReplyDelete
  62. I love what you guys do too. Keep up the great work guys.. After 2 years, India resumes regular International flights, India resumes regular International flights , you can read all info through India e visa website.

    ReplyDelete
  63. شركة تعقيم بالقصيم
    fi alfatrat al'akhirat wabaed al'iintishar alkabir lifayrus kuruna fi kafat 'anha' alealam , fa'asbahat eamaliaat albahth ean sharikat taeqim bialqasim kathiratan min 'ajl eamaliaat altaeqim lilmanazil walshuqaq walfilaat

    شركة مكافحة الحمام بالقصيم

    alkathir min alsukaan fi manazil buridat yueanun min kathrat alhamam alnaajim ean kathrat alhamaamat bial'iidafat 'iilaa alraayihat alkarihat

    شركة مكافحة حشرات بالقصيم
    sharikat mukafahat hasharat bialqasim tuqadim al'iibadat walnihayiyat lilsarasir sawa' kanat alzaahif minha 'aw altaayir , tilk alhasharat dhat almazhar almuqaziz waltaathir alsalbii ealaa alsihat lima tabuthuh min jarathim wamikrubat bialtaeamif'iidha lahazna 'akthar makan tatajamae fih

    شركة تنظيف مكيفات بالقصيم
    tuetabar eamaliat mutakamilat eamaliat altanzif alati taqum biha eamaliat altanzif alati taqum biha alsharikat , hayth yatajahaluha hayth yatarakam alghubar dakhil almarawih walmurashahat waldawaghit wabayanatihi

    شركة تنظيف منازل بالقصيم

    sharikat tanzif bialqasim almutakhasisat fi tanzif alshuqaq walfilal walmakatib walsharikat altijariat aleamilat fi majal aleamal altijarii fi majal altanzif bitadribina bialtariqat alhadithat fi majal alnazafa ... nadman jawdat alkhidmat wanaqum 'asafaha bi'asrae al'asear fi alnazafat wanaqum bitanzifiha

    شركة تسليك مجاري بالقصيم

    'iina sharikat taslik majari bialqasim min 'ahami alsharikat alati tusaeid fi altakhalus min almushkilat alkhasat bi ainsidad almajari , wadhalik hayth 'ana alsharikat taemal fi ziadat eadad kabir min almadaris alhadithat alati tusaeid fi altakhalus min mushkilat alainsidad alkhasat bialmajari , walwade hi min alsharikat almumayazat walmutakhasisat fi altakhalus min tahasul ealaa furas eamal tahsul ealayha jamie aleumala' fi jamie 'anha' alealami.

    ReplyDelete
  64. "Patient' with various types of cancer(s) have been restored by the utilization of medications!" https://www.drpriyatiwari.com/services/colon-cancer-specialist-delhi

    ReplyDelete
  65. Hello reader, I hope you are well and good. I want to grab travelers' attention who wish to visit Turkey. Applying for an electronic visa Turkey is very easy with the help of an online process. You don’t need to go to the embassy. Online evisa process have save time and money.

    ReplyDelete
  66. "Patient' with different kinds of cancer(s) have been cured by the use of drugs!" Joy by motiva singapore

    ReplyDelete
  67. I am very impressed with your writing 출장샵매니저 I couldn't think of this, but it's amazing! I wrote several posts similar to this one, but please come and see!

    ReplyDelete