Cancer Awareness

My dear friends and family,

So, it's still a month to go until "Breast Cancer Awareness Month," but I've already started to get those "for girls only" messages in my inbox. You know, the ones where you post the color of your bra, or where you like to keep your purse, your shoe size, or whatever. Just letting you know: I'm not participating. I'm also not going to dress in pink and pay 20% more for something because it's pink and they'll donate 5 cents to cancer research. I know... I'm a party pooper, but I really don't see how this really helps cure cancer.

It's all about awareness. And being aware is important. You can't defend yourself from something that you aren't even aware of, right?! We all need fun and friendly little reminders to do the things we know we should in order to keep ourselves healthy. I get that. What I don't get is how posting something really vague and possibly sexually suggestive will help your sisters, mothers, daughters, and friends get the exams and treatments they need to stay healthy. Because, really, a lot of those people never got the memo... They have no idea that "pink, with black polka dots!" or "I like it on the table" is actually some kind of code for "If you like your female parts, you should take care of them and get them checked out by a doctor regularly."

Awareness is good. But it's ACTION that will cure cancer. So, if I don't reply or post any of your little games or codes, don't be offended. Go for it! Have fun! Post to your heart's content all of that stuff, but please, when you're done posting your funny stuff, don't forget that being aware isn't enough. You have to DO something about it.

Pay attention to your body. Know what's normal, and what's not. Get regular check-ups and exams at the doctor's office. I know... I hate them too!! They are uncomfortable and embarrassing, but they can save your life. So, one woman to another- take care of yourself. Please. Breast cancer is a horrible disease. So is leukemia, and heart disease, and diabetes... the list goes on and on.

So, there. I'm off my soapbox now. Love to you all. Here's to hopes for a healthy year for all of us, man and woman alike, and no matter what the disease... I hope we can find a cure someday. But until we do, all we can do is fight a good fight and hope we win!

So, no code. No secret email. No memo needed to explain how something vague I posted is to remind us of cancer. This year you get a frank and open statement from me:

Cancer is nasty. It hurts, it destroys, it kills. People love you, and would be devastated if you left them. So PLEASE, no matter your age or health status, here's a friendly reminder. Make sure you're up to date with all of your checkups and screenings. If you're not, please make an appointment. Catch it early, treat it quickly, and live on for yourself and those of us who care.

Lots of love,

Michelle