Knowledge is Power

By Linda Caldean, RN

October is here and time for me as a breast cancer survivor to get on my soapbox. I want to remind everyone that it is “Breast Cancer Awareness” month, also known as “Pinktober”. Sadly, statistics haven’t changed, as one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. (Approx. 6,030 new cases in Wi this year alone).

This is not good, which is why we must continue to fight the fight until that changes.

• Have you had your yearly screening. Early detection means higher survival. 
• Do you regularly assess the appearance of your breasts for any changes. (In my case, that’s what I noticed first.)
• Are you doing breast self-exams (it’s more common than you think to find your own lump.)
• Remember that men can have breast cancer too, so take seriously any changes in his breast area.
• Consider genetic testing if you have a family history of breast cancer. (The results can influence your decision making.)

Preventative measures are vital. But on the other hand, if you have become a statistic due to recently being diagnosed with breast cancer, here are “words of encouragement” from my heart to yours.

Knowledge is Power

Being told you have a cancerous tumor in your breast is something no-one wants to hear. It will completely upend any normalcy in your life and become your number one focus, at least for a while. Initial reaction can be a shock and then perhaps a dose of disbelief and anger. Lastly, fear may creep in and take hold at some level, constantly testing you. You may feel that you don’t know where to start on this journey that you didn’t ask to take. 

It is a variety of emotions for sure, a roller coaster. Some have said they sort of exist in a fog, going through the motions of what lies ahead. More tests, doctor appointments, surgery and recovery, then treatment, (not necessarily in that order). There is no “cookie cutter” approach to breast cancer and at times you feel others don’t understand what you are going through. Even with the very best support system, it can still be a very lonely place to be.

By exploring reputable sites with reliable information, along with networking, you can empower yourself on your journey through breast cancer. With a better understanding of your condition, you can become an advocate for yourself as you work with your healthcare team. By arming yourself with knowledge, you can be better prepared to ask the right questions, thus bringing to light some of the things that are creating unnecessary fear.

With the right information, you can become an active participant in your care, gain confidence in your decision making and feel more in control of the cancer. 

You can choose to THRIVE and flourish, not just survive. By developing resilience, you will meet the challenges and learn how to adapt to this new life’s journey, greeting each day with hope and purpose.

So, let’s begin.

Resources:

American Cancer Society –  cancer.org

Living Beyond Breast Cancer – lbbc.org

National Breast Cancer Foundation – nationalbreastcancer.org