By Christiénne Miller

As my October opens with beautiful sunshine and a slight chill in the air, I invite you to join me in a moment of reflection, awareness, and action.

This is, of course, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month — and stands as a reminder that the race to find a cure is not yet over. Though I support the cause all the year through, I’m always spurred to reflect — during this month in particular — on all the people in my life who have battled and survived, or fallen, as a result of this insidious disease.

This year, however, I also gained a new awareness, incited by the view of a friend of mine. She basically was confused as to why a month was needed to promote awareness, when the focus on a cure seemed like something that should be supported instead.

I quickly put away my incredulous reaction, because I realized her family had not been directly touched by breast cancer, and I think it’s sometimes hard to comprehend those causes that don’t hit home — especially in the age of information overload. In that moment, I also became aware that my friend may not be the only one who thought this way.

So, in order to wholly support this cause, I would like to share my response to her, with you.

• Reflection: Have you checked out the Booby Wall yet? If not, I think it’s a must. I hope you find it as I do — as a sweet celebration.

• Awareness: When it comes to breast cancer, this is something that plays a crucial role in prevention and survival. Knowing your family history, performing regular self breast examinations to monitor any changes in your breast tissue, keeping to a regular checkup schedule with your doctor, educating yourself on the different types of breast cancers, and sharing your knowledge are all excellent ways to heighten awareness. Remember: The more you know, the sooner you can move into personal action, if need be, and the better chance you have at a successful outcome.

• Action: In the fight against breast cancer, personal and global action is paramount. Maybe it just means that you put aside your fear of what you might find and start doing regular breast exams, or visit your doctor immediately if something seems off. Exploring, and sharing, methods of increasing your breast health and signing petitions that support the humane treatment of mastectomy patients are other productive ways you can participate. Buying products and donating resources directly to support breast cancer research remains as important today as it was when the first reported case of breast cancer appeared.

As you may be able to tell, this is an emotional subject for me and I thank you for taking this time with me. Cheers to an October filled with health, sweetness, awareness, and triumph for you, and the ones you love.

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