Keeping HOPE Alive

Everyday I sit back and try to think of new ways to keep the focus on finding the cause and finding the cure for breast cancer. I fund raise for Making Strides and Relay for Life in the hopes that funds go to help those who need it most. I believe it does.

Another aspect that I think is just as critical is keeping HOPE alive. I recently read that approximately every three minutes another woman is diagnosed with breast cancer. That is what...20 women an hour, 480 women each day, 14,400 each month and 172,800 each year. When you look at it like this, it is overwhelming and almost gut wrenching because lately it seems that almost every week, someone I know is being diagnosed with a dangerous BC.

I feel that somehow with my survival thus far, it is imperative that I make time to offer hope, and help that newly diagnosed woman - or man - keep their hope alive. As those who have had breast cancer know, with a diagnosis comes many dark days and life altering decisions.

Today, I go back to what I've said many times during my writings - if you haven't yet scheduled your mammogram for this year, please do so. Write yourself a promise to do it - you will be saving those who love you most from endless worrying, sleepless nights, and long hospital stays. Love yourself enough to give your body hope. Hope that you never have breast cancer, hope that if you do get it, your body will stay strong enough to fight back, and hope in our medical community as they continue to research every available option to save lives.

My closing words for you are these: I PROMISE.

I want you to promise me that you will schedule your mammogram. Even if it is 4 months out. Don't get caught up in your busy day to day schedule and keep forgetting because cancer waits for no one. My hope for you is that you walk away and go to your calendar to make a note that says, "I promise"....and follow up.

I hope that you have many years ahead with your family, your friends, your neighbors. And yes, your breasts and hair, too.

And I promise I'll stay right here and keep writing to you. Love to all.