October - time for "pink"

If you were to walk in my closet, you'd find about three articles of pink clothing.  There is a pink sweater, pink t-shirt and a multi-colored scarf with different hues of pink.  The main color in my closet is black; however, during the month of October you will see me wearing pink at least once a week.  And I'm sure most of our area will be wearing pink in honor and memory of our friends and family with breast cancer.  

There are numerous fundraisers going on during the month of October to raise awareness for the battle against breast cancer — 5K runs, seminars and an event sponsored by Meridian Plastic Surgery are just a few of the things that will be taking place.  

Not many people can say they haven't been touched in some way by this determined disease.  Whether it is by a family member, a friend, a co-worker or a fellow church member, we all have seen what it can do to the person and their family.  My grandmother had breast cancer before I was born.  She overcame that type of cancer only to have another type return 14 years ago to which she lost that battle.  Every year, people are beating this disease with the help of new and improved treatments.  Women are also being diagnosed early with thanks to many of their friends and family asking them to not neglect their health.

While working on this issue, I have met many of you that are strong and healthy survivors, many who are being treated and have positive outlooks and those who are dealing with a family member or friend going through treatments.  The most common word I've heard is "strong. Being strong for their family and friends.  Being strong dealing with the treatments.  Being strong knowing that it can and will be beat."  Having that "strong" will power is what is getting them through.  

During the next few weeks, think of someone you know who is dealing with this cancer and see if there is something you can do to make their day a little brighter.  It might be sitting with them during their treatment, carrying them dinner one night or just a lunch date to let them know they are cared for and loved.  

I hope that one day breast cancer is treated by a single shot.  Maybe I will see that in my lifetime.  To those of you who are fighters and survivors, this community loves and supports you now and always.

I hope to see a lot of pink while I'm out and about!