Pinktober Reflection for 2013

It's been a while since I've blogged.  In some ways that is a good thing.  It means I've been busy traveling, living and doing other non-cancer related things. However it is October and I feel it's time for reflection.  

A few years ago the color pink became a taboo color because so many companies were profiting from pink products.  Many survivors felt exploited.  It's a shame because the color pink and the pink ribbon is so powerful.  Most cancers do not get the recognition breast cancer gets.  Some cancers are envious of all the attention and money that is poured into breast cancer.  I don't blame them.  Every cancer and disease is just as important, especially for that person living it with.  

I know first hand how much a diagnosis can change you.  I see first hand how a second diagnosis can really flip your world upside down.  The second diagnosis, whether it be an early stage cancer or if it ends up being more aggressive and metastasis can almost make you feel defeated.  First time is a fight and then you feel as if you won.  Second and third time reality hits even more about your mortality.  Cancer wins way too often.  I've attended more memorial services than any 36 year old should need to attend.  Just when you think you have cancer behind you then BAM!  It's back!  Once it metastasis you wonder how long you can keep it in check before it outsmarts the doctors and drugs.  

For me the Pink Ribbon is not a product you purchase or something someone profits from.  The Pink Ribbon is about HOPE.  Survivors hope the cancer will never return again.  Those that have metastatic breast cancer hope that they can keep their cancer stable.  They hope to see an old age.  They hope to see their children grow up.  

I was asked to give a speech earlier this month on being brave.  I don't always feel so brave.  Cancer wasn't a choice I would have picked for myself.  It found me. Regardless, I guess I could have crumbled but instead I decided to help others living with the disease.  Below are two photos from that evening.  The bottom one is from someone I met six years ago after we suffered a loss.  That is a perfect example of the love and connection you feel when you go through something like this together.  This is another example of the power of Pink.