That Thin line between loving and hating october

Sometimes it feels like there’s a thin line between loving and hating October but ultimately love wins.

Here are some of the many things I’m grateful for: research resulting from all the money raised during October, support and research from allies and fighters, awareness on sports fields and my kid’s recognition of what it is—and relatively positive attitude towards it.

I remember shortly after completing my first round of treatment my then 6 year old son saw a pink ribbon, excitedly pointed it out to me and said with a smile “look mommy! Breast Cancer!” I was surprised by his response and then overcome with a variety of emotions because I wasn’t taken away due to it. My kids and family could celebrate and take pride in the pink ribbon. They didn’t have a darkness or loss associated with it as millions of people do. I am grateful for that every single day.

While the number of women who experience breast cancer following the menopause journey is much lower than the number of women who experience heart disease during the menopause journey (an astounding 1 in 3), I’m going to make a point to highlight self breast exams at the start of every month. I don’t have that “time of the month” any more so this will be it for me.

This is not an original idea. As with everything I’m learning about the menopause journey and survivorship, I first saw the hashtag #feelitonthefirst on IG. Aisha Patterson is a very vocal and young survivor who posts amazing gems and reels about her cancer journey and life post treatment. This hashtag was one of the cool things I came across by following her and have been inspired to share.

The menopause transition is so much more than negative and scary side effects but having breast cancer and a recurrence is how I got here a little earlier than I expected.

So as I reflect on all the feelings that come with October, I’m going to take something “Pausitive” away from it and remember how important self exams and body awareness are. Both can save your life—it did twice for me.

Check out my IG for some tips on how to do a self breast exam. Happy October!