Her chest was scraped to the bone before I was born, but you never would have known it. With her silver and black hair, quiet wisdom, and regal bearing she was the Queen of our village. She was also a breast cancer survivor.
It’s been many years since I’ve been able to lay my head in my great-grandmother’s lap, but the warmth of her love still lives vividly in my memory. We were close as two peas in a pod, and yet there was so much about her that remained a mystery.
Great Granny was from a generation that kept their own counsel. They didn’t talk about certain things – especially things like cancer.
I think about her from time to time, as I wonder who in our family will be next. Generation after generation, cancer has continued it’s dogged pursuit. It’s like a bandit striking when we least expect it, stealing what surely should not belong to him. And yet like her, we persevere. For she taught us well that as long as we’re here life should be lived fully and completely, sharing as much love as possible in the moments we have.
That’s why I believe in Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It gives us all a chance to channel our energy into a cause bigger than ourselves. I know there are skeptics who believe the month has been sensationalized, over done, and way too commercialized. But I for one disagree.
As I look around and see all of the pink ribbons I am filled with gratitude and hope. Research, screenings, and treatments – none of it is free. We sometimes like to separate our favorite cause from the capital it requires to address it, but if we want to bring about change then we have to empty some change from our pockets.
I’m so grateful for companies that are willing to tie their brands to issues we believe in. It’s a great way to support our favorite charity as a part of our every day lives. Do the companies make money? Of course, and thank goodness! They are our employers. But they are also good corporate citizens – giving back and making a difference.
As I type I can already hear many of you who have strong feelings that slant the other way. “I am so sick of pink ribbons! They are everywhere! Haven’t you heard about the scam artists using breast cancer to make a quick buck?” Well, for sure there are a few. On that I have two thoughts. First, we have to do our own research. If you’ve never heard of the charity, seen their work in the community, or the company or product seem shady I say skip it and support what makes sense.
Second, we have to have a little faith. Just like I trust that the folks working at my favorite restaurant wash their hands in the bathroom, I choose to believe that most of the companies displaying pink ribbons on their products are raising funds and awareness for reputable breast cancer charities. And the collective impact of their generosity and ours is why I have hope.
Just think for a minute about the time period when my great-grandmother was diagnosed. Breast cancer wasn’t spoken about it in public, there were no survivor support groups, and treatment options were few and rudimentary at best. It’s hard to imagine, unless of course you talk to our sisters in the developing world and then you realize that there are places where not much has changed.
So what was the key to freeing ourselves from the box of shame, fear, and stigma here? Well, a big part of it was all that chatter! Yep, our gift of gab was used for good. We spoke up to those in power demanding better care, we challenged the research community to come up with solutions quicker, and we came out of the shadows and supported each other in love. Our pink ribbons were a symbol of freedom, inspiring us to continue the fight.
Now there are voices all around the world raised in support of breast cancer. Thank goodness! For if ever we were to be silenced, we would surely lose ground. What a shame that would be when we’re making progress. Today there are more and better treatment options, yet still too many lives are lost.
I don’t know about you but I’m in it to win it. It’s going to take all of us working together to cross the finish line, and it’s not going to be cheap. So here are the three things I’m asking you to do:
Number one, take care of YOU! We are no good to anyone else unless we are first good to ourselves. Make sure you get any changes in your breast checked out right away, and don’t forget your annual clinical exam.
Number two, support breast cancer charities. I will resist the urge to tell you which to support and instead say support whatever resonates with you – research, screening, treatment, awareness or advocacy – in the way that works for you.
Finally, let’s keep spreading the word and wearing our pink ribbons. The two greatest risk factors are being female and getting older. That means if you’re 16 or 65, this message is for you. Until breast cancer is no more, our need to educate and support our sisters remains.
Are there too many pink ribbons? Not even close. As long as there are women and men still suffering from breast cancer, a luta continua!
Hugs and Blessings ❤
Lori Maris says
Ata girl! This is the exact spirit and straight talk that made me want to be in your presence since I met you!
katrinamcghee says
Awe, thanks Lori! I miss seeing you, but am so grateful you’re still helping lead the way. ❤
Doreen Grant says
In it to win it. Thank you Katrina.
katrinamcghee says
So happy to serving alongside you!
Kenna Williams says
“We are no good to anyone else unless we are first good to ourselves.” – Love this!!!
Kenna
katrinamcghee says
Hope you are taking some moments to love on you! ❤
Wynette says
Wow…I have to admit Katrina, that first sentence hit me HARD! As I celebrate the life of my beloved sister and best friend Gwendolyn this month and year round, it reminded me of what every day was like for her. I remember it ALL because I was there with her, I was her caregiver. Thank you for this article, although it sent chills through my body and tears chasing it was a compelling reminder of LIFE and making certain we take care and are aware of our bodies. 🙂
In loving memory of my sister and best friend
Gwendolyn Amanda Randolph
March 27, 1968 – July 15, 2010
katrinamcghee says
Wynette, thank you for sharing your heart with us. We’re so sorry that you lost your sister, and so incredibly grateful for the love you shared. There is still so much work to do! Thank you for sharing your story, and helping spread the word. Hugs, K