Transcript:
Greetings, beloved in Christ, happy October. It is leaf peeping time here in the mountains of Colorado, and I hope that if you have the opportunity that you’ll avail yourself on the amazing artistry that nature has on display. October is also Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so it is time for my annual reminder to know your risk for breast cancer. Know that in our fight against breast cancer, early detection and early intervention are our best tools. My cancer was detected on a routine mammogram, and my doctor said that I was the poster child for annual screening and early detection and early intervention. My cancer was such that had I not been getting regular mammograms, it might have gone unnoticed until I was further down the cancer road. I’m grateful for my team, for my doctors, for my sister who encouraged me to get that mammogram when I professed I didn’t have time. And so I encourage you to know your risk for breast cancer. Know that men also develop breast cancer. Know that breast cancer is correlated with other cancers in family lines like ovarian cancer or prostate cancer. Know your risks and encourage those around you who might be at risk, especially women over 40, to get their mammograms, to do their self checks and self exams because it’s important.
Also know that there are lots of women in our midst living with metastatic breast cancer. And while our treatments have gotten better, it can sometimes feel like a lonely, lonely space. Reach out to folks, hold them in prayer. Remind those close to you about the risk of breast cancer and encourage folks to do their important work of early screening. Also, if you are able, contribute to foundations that help make mammograms available for everyone, not just those who can afford it, or those with excellent insurance. It’s important. I wish you a happy and blessed fall.
