October month is an effort to raise awareness and reduce the stigma of breast cancer through education on symptoms and treatment. Awareness is important for funding towards research into the cause, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and cure. The campaigns also offer information and support to those affected by breast cancer. Every woman should do research on the types of breast cancer, and how to detect:
• Do a physical exam yourself.
• Go for a yearly mammogram after 40, and if you have a history of breast cancer in your family, go earlier.
• An alternative to a mammogram, you can go for an MRI Scan or Breast Ultrasound.
• If cancer was found your doctor will do a biopsy to make sure if it is cancerous cells.
• If cancerous cells were found the lump may be removed, and a grading will be done on how far cancer has spread. From here your doctor will decide on the course of treatment.
• Ask your doctor or hospital where to find support groups if you have no one around.
The most import thing Ann has learned through this experience with her mom is to make memories every day, know what the stats are, be aware of your body and never be afraid to wear the scar. You are a survivor, and if someone you know did not survive, learn from them so that their memory can live on.
