I don’t mean to focus on breast health constantly, but given my experiences, it’s hard for me not to. Discussions about mammograms, self-exams, breast implant complications, and cancer statistics often slip into my everyday conversations, regardless of whether it makes others uncomfortable.
I’ve definitely been told to tone down my discussions about breasts—subtly or directly. My reply? If you find breast health awkward to discuss, consider how much more uncomfortable breast cancer is.
You might think that it’s just the overly cautious individuals who shy away from reminders like “check yourself on the first” (meaning do your self-exam at the start of every month). But surprisingly, even women who identify as liberal, feminist, or body-positive often squirm when the topic of their own health comes up.
When faced with trauma, people generally react in one of two ways: they either openly express their struggles or they bury them deep down, pretending nothing happened. I’m not criticizing those who choose the latter approach; for me, sharing my story has been therapeutic and freeing.
As an Enneagram Type 8, confrontation comes naturally to me. I’m not suggesting that everyone discuss their health with strangers, but I’m open about having battled breast cancer twice, especially if someone remarks on my pink-ribbon shirt. If they’re willing to engage, I’m happy to share my journey.
I was diagnosed with breast cancer at 35. Prior to that, I had two benign lumps removed. With “very dense” breast tissue, cancer can easily hide, making regular monitoring essential. When I discovered a third lump during a self-exam, I promptly consulted my doctor, leading to my first mammogram and ultrasound.
Initially, the scans showed nothing alarming, and I was told to return in six months. However, my instinct told me otherwise, so I sought a second opinion from a breast surgeon who agreed to perform a biopsy. My intuition was correct: that third lump was cancerous. I was diagnosed with stage 0 breast cancer, but after further testing, it was upgraded to stage 1.
After what I thought was a successful fight against cancer, I focused on my mental and physical well-being. Just as I was approaching the five-year cancer-free mark, I discovered something unusual in my chest wall. After numerous scans and a biopsy, I was once again diagnosed with breast cancer.
The past eight months have been a whirlwind of surgeries, scans, chemotherapy, and radiation. While I’m grateful for a second chance, I’m also exhausted and traumatized.
It baffles me that women will openly admire celebrities or watch near-nude TikTok videos, yet shy away from discussing their own breast health. It doesn’t add up. Taking care of our bodies is crucial, and early detection can be lifesaving.
Self-exams, mammograms, and ultrasounds are essential tools for monitoring breast health. If there’s a family history of breast cancer, genetic testing can also be valuable.
I often send my friends entertaining posts and memes, but I prioritize reminding them to check their breasts monthly. If we can share a funny video, we should also care enough to remind friends that one in eight women will face breast cancer in their lifetime.
Most breast cancer patients do not have a family history; many, like me, are diagnosed at a young age. Breast cancer does not discriminate based on age, race, or lifestyle. The sooner you identify an issue, the better the outcome can be.
I won’t shy away from talking about breast health. If my conversations encourage even one person to perform a self-exam or schedule a mammogram, it’s all worth it, no matter the discomfort. Cancer is a serious topic, and my aim is to save others from facing the same battle.
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Summary:
This article discusses the importance of openly talking about breast health, particularly in light of personal experiences with breast cancer. The author emphasizes the need for awareness and regular self-examinations, countering societal discomfort around the topic. Through candid storytelling, the goal is to encourage women to prioritize their health and seek regular screenings.
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