Thoughts about October and "Breast Cancer Awareness"

So I had this big idea that I would write something about breast cancer and my diagnosis every day in October. We are nearing the end of the month and I haven't written anything. I found myself stuck as soon as this place to write was created. I had so many thoughts. Where to start. What to write. How personal. What was I thinking. It's a big deal apparently. Since I tend to like to do things easily the hard way, I've come to a place where I can start. After all, I have to start somewhere and it can be a small start.

Like many people living with or having experienced breast cancer treatment, I have come to dislike the pink messaging that happens in October. "Breast cancer awareness" has been presented with sexy pink messaging. Marketers use pink ribbons and pink products to make money off this deadly disease. They say they are donating to breast cancer "causes". Generally only a very small fraction of the profits they make go to any legitimate breast cancer research or program. They just get richer. For more information check this documentary Pink Ribbons Inc

1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. 1 in 3 of those will be or become metastatic. Only 5% of funds raised for breast cancer goes to research on metastatic breast cancer (MBC). We are aware. We need better research and treatments. A cure would be nice.

I was diagnosed with breast cancer in February 2019. I knew what it was as soon as I discovered the mass. This lead me on a year long journey of intense and harsh treatments. I am still taking medications. Breast cancer is not pink or fluffy. It is most definitely not sexy.

My plan is to share some of my journey with breast cancer. Feel free to ask questions. I'll answer as best I can.

This isn't my shirt. (one day I'll get this)

 

[Luce NDs]

What are breasts for? This is generally something to aid mystery ... people love not knowing cause knowledge creates expanding response ability ... some are not able due to overwhelming temptations ... these are presented with ADs for the sake of selling something ... usually not natural concerns. Thus unnatural and supernatural things for rising powers as they head for the buffalo falls ... like Niagara, once they fall for it they can't stop ... down they go! Nemesis personified ...

 

[Mendalla]

What are breasts for?

Nursing babies? I mean, that's not as poetic as yours but that's the basic truth. Mammary glands are a defining trait of mammals and are for feeding the young'uns.

 

[Luce NDs]

Nursing babies? I mean, that's not as poetic as yours but that's the basic truth. Mammary glands are a defining trait of mammals and are for feeding the young'uns.

Meme chose in a metaphorical sense that will raise the hair on some hackles ... imagine if god is like the wind and there is a breast of wind ... would it be Kohl? They don't like being observed? Consider Venus in her shy form ... little consideration ...

 

[Northwind]

Feels like political and social and economic pressures are already trying to do me in when I’m not sick with a serious illness

Thanks for this. I've noticed that you've become more focused and articulate on this issue. That's great.

It pisses me off when breast cancer is politicized essentially when Pinktober rolls around. I know it's not blatantly political, yet in some ways it is. It's hard to put into words.

That being said, you're getting more pressures than I am and more challenges.

But this isn’t about me it’s about you. That’s why I’ve stayed quiet. Just so you know, I appreciate you. I value you.

Thanks. I've really enjoyed your input since you've come back. I see a maturity and growth. It's cool to see you putting your brains, passion and skills to good use.