October is a special month!

A visit to Kindra’s blog reminded me that our two favorite months of the Fall – September and October—also signify health awareness for two very important causes – ovarian cancer (September) and, of course breast cancer, in October.
The fight against breast cancer is very close to me because being a BC survivor, I know the fear we all live with (first-hand, unfortunately). When I found my own lump shortly in 2002, I knew that I was lucky – found early, diagnosed early, treated early. I did not need chemo, but I did need 7 weeks of daily radiation -- blog buds, my poor boob was fried!!! Ewww, it was so sore and so raw after daily treatments. At the end of 7 weeks, I was exhausted, pale, and sore. In that short time of 7 years, radiation has improved and most women have a much easier time of it. But ever since that time, I have spent every October trying to remind women, regardless of age, to be sure to get their yearly mammograms, do routine self-exams, and don’t ignore anything that feels “different.” Get to know your own breasts, what feels right, what doesn’t. And, don’t be afraid to call your doctor if anything feels ‘funny’ – early detection saves lives. Fear delays treatment! For info on how to do self breast exams, go here. It’s easy and it saves lives!
OCTOBER IS BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

But, that being said, I want to mention a very dear friend who is fighting Stage 4 ovarian cancer, September’s awareness. This lovely woman Joanie, lives in New Orleans, is now in year 5 of difficult chemo. She has been through every treatment there is. On top of that, she was displaced by Katrina right in the middle of treatment in 2005, moved to Houston for a few months where she was treated without access to her medical records, moved back to New Orleans where portions of her house were covered with mold, no a/c,no phone, no electricity... and… a BULL walking around her backyard. Through all of these nightmares, she has maintained a strong Catholic faith, works every day, and worries about everyone else. Ovarian is one horrible disease, and as women, we need to do everything we can to at least help researchers find a way to early diagnosis. She is a daily inspiration and if your are inclined to say a prayer, say one for Joanie, who is, in anyone’s definition, touched by something bigger than any of us.
I often think of one of my former students, whose mom (also a nurse) was diagnosed too late with ovarian and died before she could see her daughter graduate college and law school. She is often in my thoughts.

If you read through our little blog land these past few weeks, many are dealing with something difficult in our lives. Sick and aging parents, sickness, kids without work, -- I think sometimes our prim addiction helps us carve out a warm and comfortable place to just ‘be.’ You are in my thoughts and prayers. At this very important month for women, wear your pink ribbon proudly and be empowered!