Breast Cancer Awareness

As all of you probably know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month! Last weekend, we had Race for the Cure here in Omaha and nearly 18,000 people came for the walk. Our Team ("Breast Savers") had 34 people this year, and it was awesome!

Why is this so important to me? Well, my grandmother was diagnosed with breast cancer when my mom was in college. She went through treatment and lived a full, long life. Cancer has affected my family.

My mom was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005, just weeks before she was to go see my sister in Spain. That was the most difficult conversation I have ever had as I had to tell her when she called me in the middle of the night. She went through treatment and is doing great! Cancer again affects my family.

This Spring, my Uncle (mom's brother) was diagnosed with breast cancer. Yes, that's right- men can be affected as well. He has gone through treatment and is doing well. His wife (my aunt) was also diagnosed with breast cancer several years ago. Cancer continues to affect my family and probably me.

Now I'm sure I will get questions about whether or not I will undergo the genetic testing and prophylactic treatment. I don't know. That's the best answer I can give.

But just so you know, this blog will remain 'pink' throughout the entire month in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This is a cause obviously near and dear to my heart. So when you see the pink things everywhere, think of my family and the thousands of families affected by this devastating disease.

Here is a picture of my mom and brother when they were young- how cute!

And here is the whole family. My grandparents and mom and uncle.