Check Those Boobies
October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and a reminder for all of us Mamacitas to check our boobies. When I was 21 years old, I found a lump on my breast the size of a golf ball. Fortunately, it was just a fibrous mass and not cancer. At the time, the possibilities of a 21-year-old being diagnosed with breast cancer were very rare but going through the process including surgery was scary. Since then, I’ve made it a habit to examine my breasts regularly and began my annual mammogram screenings last year.
Nowadays, age doesn’t seem to matter, breast cancer or any form of cancer does not discriminate based on age, gender, race, or social status. My October Mamacita at the early age of 32 was diagnosed with Stage 2 Breast Cancer (if you haven’t read her story - click here) and just last year at the age of 68 my own Mamacita was diagnosed.
Three years prior our family had already stood by our father’s side as he battled colon cancer. I remember the day as if it were yesterday, my Dad and I sitting in the waiting area of the hospital as the doctor told us he had a big tumor in his colon. My dad sat there speechless and shocked, while I was in tears wondering if this meant death. I believe this is the first thought that runs through anyone’s mind when you hear the word, “cancer.” His cancer was diagnosed early, and only had surgery to remove the tumor because the cancer didn’t spread.
My mama’s diagnosis was not any less shocking and just as many tears were shed, but this time around we didn’t jump into conclusions and waited to talk to her doctors before picturing the worst-case scenario. However, her diagnosis hit our family so much harder. Our matriarch was down, emotionally, and physically. It’s heartbreaking to see the family’s matriarch this way, we envision them as immortal yet are often reminded that they too are human and susceptible to life’s punches. Her journey was different than my fathers. Although she was diagnosed with Stage 1 Ductal Carcinoma and her cancer hadn’t spread, she still endured 12 sessions of chemotherapy with an additional six months of a treatment called Herceptin. As I sit here writing this, both of my parents are in remission and we are incredibly thankful for it everyday.
Years ago I raced to raise awareness and acknowledge women who had fought this battle not imagining I would add my mama to this list in the future. With breast cancer, the stakes are high and we have to do our part to take care of our health. If there is anything I’ve learned these last few years is that early detection is key. So Mamacitas, stay current with your preventative screenings, check those boobies regularly, and be an advocate for your health. If something doesn’t feel or look right, don’t stop asking questions until you figure out why. There are so many resources out there for us, take advantage of them. To learn more visit the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.
I dedicate this post to all the warriors who are fighting the battle, those who have survived, and those who will remain in our hearts forever. Join me in sending them strength and prayers.
To my Mama, who hit rock bottom when she was given the news yet was so strong through the process, you are my hero. To my grandma, Rita Manzano and my aunt, Clementina Olmedo, may you rest in eternal peace. To my aunt Yolanda, even though you are not fighting breast cancer, you are still battling this horrific disease. You are in my thoughts daily and am praying for your speedy recovery.
Xoxo - G
Update 7/13/21 - My aunt Yolanda lost her battle with cancer on July 11, 2021. She was a fighter and always found the way to stay positive during her battle. May you rest in eternal peace Tia.
