HEALTHY LIVING
MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN
BREAST CANCER
Marion E. Wildey
W
ith the onset of Fall, central Floridians get
a break in the intense heat, experience a
roll-out of pumpkin-spiced gastronomic
creations, and in a healthful living
focus – a huge push for women to focus on their
breast health. The staggering statistic showing that
1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer,
ranking it the third most common cancer specific
to women, gives credibility to the month-long
awareness program. The month of pink splashes
across flyers, advertising, promotional materials,
even roadways, and aspires to involve everyone in
awareness, prevention tips, as well as funding goods
and activities aimed to support women throughout
their breast cancer journey. Breast cancer is more
successfully overcome with early detection through
self-examination and annual diagnostic evaluations
like mammography, but paramount to discovering you
have breast cancer is the importance of maintaining
and increasing your forward-looking attitude. A
positive mindset not only serves to improve quality
of life overall, but has been shown to have a keen
impact upon successful treatment. October’s efforts
strengthen the entire community with uplifting
and empowering involvement, whether she has
been diagnosed or her close friend or relative has
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WINTER GARDEN MAGAZINE
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OCTOBER 2018
received this terrifying diagnosis. Having a support
network at her disposal relies on participation from
community and national organizations fueled at
the local level. The participation of individuals is
what sustains these beneficial programs, and there
are several opportunities to volunteer in so many
different capacities; there is something that appeals to
everyone. When your world has crashed down upon
you and the overwhelming details of your journey
are presented in varying financial, psychological and
health setbacks, it is vital to have support along all
aspects of this tarriance governed by cancer. Men
and women alike are encouraged to participate in
any aspect of supporting women diagnosed with
this illness. It is through shared connections like
fundraising events that yield powerful, energetic
bonding strengthened by the many who dedicate
time and effort to a cause that uplifts and empowers
women touched by breast cancer throughout the year.
The more involvement a community has in creating a
support network, the more likely it will yield a positive
future for all who have been scarred by breast cancer,
including those who walk this crusade in honor of
friends or family. Making yourself available to women
during such a rough experience is not only welcomed
but it helps in making a difference for the future.