This month is all about breast cancer awareness but frankly, before now, I never paid much attention to it. It’s kind of funny how that happens especially since I’ve had more than just one family member diagnosed with breast cancer. Cancer seems to be in the O’Neal genetics whether I like it or not.
On my Dad’s side of the family, my Aunt Rose was diagnosed with breast cancer a couple of years ago. Aunt Rose went through the treatments for it and in the process she lost her hair, and one of her breasts. It’s a pretty scary reality to think about especially since it’s so close to home for me.
Another family member that had breast cancer was my cousin, Debbie. Debbie was a one-of-a-kind leading lady who never hesitated to give me books whenever I came to visit. Debbie loved doing crafts such as making rugs, or knitting any number of different things. She absolutely loved animals but most of all, she dearly loved her husband Hugh O’Neal.
About two years ago, Debbie passed away from breast cancer. The whole family was devastated and I know Hugh was too and still is. Cancer is a scary thing to me, that even though I never paid attention to breast cancer awareness month, it still has a big impact on my family and my life.
People are always talking about finding the “cure to cancer.” But, this mysterious cure seems like it’s always just out of reach. Well I say, until we find a cure for cancer, let awareness be our cure.
Staying aware and cognizant of what your body is telling you is important. There are early signs of breast cancer and the best advice I can give, is to learn what these signs are.
Let’s find a cure through awareness.