Since I live in California I am not usually tipped off to the change of months by the a change in seasons or multicolored fall leaves. I typically first notice the new month in the grocery store. Long before I see the “women’s magazines” at the check out stands featuring stories about breast cancer survivors, I will have passed the pink-labeled soup display, the pink wrapped chocolates, and the other assorted pink items. In the last two decades, the month historically associated with pumpkins has given way to the pink ribbon.

This year is no different. Sunday morning after church I stopped in to the grocery store to pick up a few things. At the check out counter, the woman scanned my items and asked if I wanted to donate to their breast cancer campaign. I looked up and saw a curtain of pink cards emblazoned with the names of loved ones. It was only October 1st and already there were a couple hundred cards backed by generous donations. How many will line the store before the month is up?

For me, breast cancer awareness month has come to symbolize community support. When I see the pink merchandise and the fundraising campaigns, I think of all the people whose lives were saved by the awareness the month generates. I am reminded of the all the women who have had the opportunity for screenings as result of the fund raising. I am overwhelmed with gratitude to all of the generous people who opened their hearts and wallets to donate to research. Most of all, I am humbled by the tiny pink ribbon that reminded me to be vigilant and to recognize the urgency when I felt that little lump three and half years ago.

So today, even if you feel bombarded with the pink power of October, make that appointment for your mammogram. You are worth it.

Labels: awareness