HONORING WOMANHOOD

AUTUMN '20

I’m blessed. I’m surrounded by divine feminine energy. Through my mother, grandmothers, aunts, and friends I've learned Womanhood is worth honoring. October is Breast cancer awareness month, so let's talk about it. Here you will find useful information about breast cancer and my testimonies of loved ones whom have been directly affected by Breast cancer.

I was first introduced to Breast cancer when inquiring about my maternal Grandmother Bessie. The woman I never met but heard so much about. The woman that I felt connected to throughout my life. My Grandmother Bessie passed in October of 1985, a year later I was born. My mother was young when she lost her mother. It took time to fully understand what had taken her mother so rapidly and aggressively. When I was around ten she explained to me"Cancer is a sickness that deserves a fight." She then showed me a chart which demonstrated how to examine your breasts for any irregularities."Everything that you feel on the right, you should feel on the left." I examine my breast monthly whether in the shower or when laying down in bed. Below you will find a diagram of how to self-examine. Please, please utilize the diagram and share with others.

I had the absolute pleasure of spending my early years with my Great-Grandmother Jennie. Beautiful woman, beautiful soul, and someone I will always cherish. Breast cancer entered later in my Great-Grandmother Jennie’s life. It was then I understood what a mastectomy was. On the day she passed I cried to the heavens. Great-Grandmother Jennie showed me the way of being a God-fearing young lady. Showed my family so much self-less love. I continue to learn so much about her through her amazing book collection and legendary musical recordings . Shoutout to my Grandfather, who preserves all our family's archives. My Great-Grandmother Jennie fought a great fight; gave one breast, focused on her health, and kept her faith. While taking many trips to the doctor's office. She is a warrior. My daughters and I will become a reflection of her.

I know my family HER-story. My mother made me aware that any unusual lump/bump should be bought up to my doctor. I make note with each doctor I encounter of my family health history – including Breast cancer. They both now rest in heaven with no pain or suffering. They both shared so much love and great memories with my family and I. I loved sharing meals with my Grandmother Jennie at Howard Johnson’s. I love to see my eyes, my nose when admiring my Grandmother Bessie in photos. Our ancestors deserve to be acknowledged, respected, and celebrated. Let's do our part! Beginning with ourselves by getting screened! I care about your health because health is true wealth.

• Know your family health history. Communication is key

• Breast cancer is a disease in which cells in the breast grow out of control

• Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the United States

• Black women and white women get breast cancer at about the same rate, but black women die from breast cancer at a higher rate than white women. Mostly, due to the lack of health resources

• Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting your alcohol intake may help reduce your risks of developing Breast cancer

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Sources:

CDC.gov; 2020

Womans.org; 2014

Until next month

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