October

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  I am sure you know that.  Between all the pink at sporting events, shirts, ribbons, signs, billboards, etc...I am pretty sure it is hard to miss.  I am glad.  This is a disease that kills WAY too many women.  This blog is to encourage women to get a mammogram.  There are not a whole lot of things you can do to prevent breast cancer(besides getting them cut off).  Yes, certain things give you a higher chance of getting it like, being overweight(another reason I worked hard to lose weight), increased estrogen, a family history, etc.  But there are three simple things a woman can do to catch it early.  First, do self exams every month. Heck, do them every day.  If you don't know how to do one properly, google it.(yeah, that is my answer for pretty much everything these days)  You can get a diagram and learn what to feel for.  Also, GET A MAMMOGRAM.  If you are whining in your head right now about how uncomfortable they are...SHUT THE HECK UP.  Chemo, radiation, and a mastectomy will be a lot more uncomfortable.  They only last a short time and they are over.  You will survive the mammogram.  Afterwards, treat yourself to something as a reward.  Something good..like chocolate, or a new purse, or shoes!  You might even start looking forward to them! :)  Lastly, educate yourself.  Know what your risks are.  Be aware of your body and what is happening.  

I do this because this disease took my grandmother, Flora Hinkle.  A precious lady who touched many lives.  Also, several of my great aunts were taken by this disease.  My risks are high and I refuse to be scared.  I want to be educated and on my toes.  You should be too.