The holiday season has always been my favorite time of the year. That December I cherished every tradition, cried during every holiday movie, lovingly picked out each gift and was worried that this could be my last Christmas. Fast forward to December 1999: not just a year away, but a lifetime. I celebrated with more gusto than ever before and really understood what was important in life. Life is precious. So, in the spirit of the season, let us all give thanks for the gifts associated with breast cancer. Yes, gifts. Breast cancer is still the #2 killer of women in the United States, but the morbidity rate is finally going down, however slowly. There are many things to be thankful for, if we just take the time to let the love surround us.
Merry Christmas and Happy Chanukah and Kwanza to the thousands of people, mostly women, who walked in the Avon Breast Cancer 3 Day in 7 United States cities this year to raise a record $40 million for breast cancer research. Thanks to the thousands who participate in the Komen Foundation Race for the Cure across the country annually to raise millions more.
Bless the scientists who found the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, so that this genetic link to breast cancer may yield a link to the cure.
Respect and kudos to Fran Visco and the National Breast Cancer Coalition for continually questioning the politicians and letting them know that we as women are a strong voting bloc and demand research dollars and real answers.
Hugs to all those cyber-angels who take the time to answer questions, initiate the newly diagnosed and develop long-distance friendships, which transcend miles, age, race and diagnosis. Special cyber-hugs to my Southern belle buddy, Flora.
Thanks to all the unknown members of prayer groups, who faithfully include breast cancer patients in their church and synogogue petitions. Prayer is powerful medicine.
Congratulations to the National Lymphedema Network for battling for all those who suffer from this often swept-under-the-carpet potential side effect of breast cancer. Way to go, Saskia!
A sincere thank you to all those researchers who toil away to find the cause and cure for this disease.
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