Hello Friend,
October is here—a month often marked by pink ribbons, awareness campaigns, and fundraising events. But for me, October has always carried a much deeper meaning. It’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and it’s personal.
Ten years ago, in May 2015, I was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer at 34. I had no family history and considered myself healthy. By the time October came around that year, I was deep in chemotherapy, had just undergone surgery, and was in agonizing pain and discomfort.
That first October, I remember feeling confused. Everywhere I looked—water bottles, grocery stores, merchandise—there was pink. Ribbons, banners, and promotions flooded the world around me. I didn’t dislike it, and I wasn’t resentful, but I didn’t know what it meant for me. How could I relate to a “month of awareness” when my life had already been upended by cancer? I was at rock bottom, struggling to navigate treatments, side effects, and the uncertainty of what was to come.
Looking back now, ten years out, I have a much clearer grasp of the journey. I’m still learning, still making tiny adjustments every day, but I have more energy, more clarity, and a deeper perspective than I did then.
Why Screening, Self-Checks, and Advocacy Matter
My personal experience taught me how crucial it is to be proactive with your health. Early detection can save lives. Screening—whether it’s mammograms, ultrasounds, or MRIs—plays a key role, but it isn’t foolproof. In my case, a diagnostic mammogram did not catch my tumor because I had dense breast tissue, which can mask growths.
Self-exams are another essential layer of awareness. Knowing your body, paying attention to changes, and acting promptly can make a difference. And beyond screenings and self-checks, advocacy is critical:
- Ask questions. Don’t hesitate to speak up if something feels off or if a test result is unclear.
- Know your risks. Family history is only one piece of the puzzle; lifestyle, genetics, and biology all play a role.
- Seek second opinions. Never feel pressured to accept a single perspective—your health is worth it.
- Trust your instincts. You know your body best. If something feels wrong, insist on further evaluation.
Awareness isn’t just about seeing pink—it’s about taking ownership of your health, understanding the tools at your disposal, and advocating for yourself every step of the way.
Resources from My Journey
This month, I’m sharing more of my story and reflections:
- Breast Cancer in Asian Women: Cultural & Medical Insights – an article I wrote in collaboration with Learn Look Locate [read here].
- Losing My Hair, Not My Identity – a personal reflection on one of chemotherapy’s most challenging experiences [read here].
Gratitude, Connection, and Sorrow
Now, every October, I feel a deep sense of gratitude. The flood of pink, the stories, the community—it reminds me of how far I’ve come, and of the strength of those navigating this journey right now. At the same time, it still rocks me a little. Every day this month, I’m reminded of my own pain and the cumulative pain of others. I carry sorrow for all of us—the struggles, the losses, and the ongoing battles that many are facing.
Even so, the month also reminds me that healing and resilience aren’t just about surviving illness—they’re about how we live our lives every day. Whether you’re recovering, supporting someone you love, or simply trying to live well, these practices matter:
- Nourish Your Body – choose foods that energize and sustain you.
- Move Joyfully – find movement that feels good, whether it’s stretching, walking, or dancing.
- Rest Deeply – allow your body and mind to recharge.
- Connect with People Who Lift Your Energy – community matters.
- Practice Gratitude – even small acknowledgments of good moments shift perspective.
- Let Go of What Doesn’t Serve You – simplify, declutter, and protect your mental space.
One small step toward better well-being today—whether for your body or your mind—matters. You don’t have to wait for a crisis to start caring for yourself.
Love yourself. Love others. Love this fragile, beautiful life. When we choose to live with intention, we invite abundance, joy, and meaning—and make space for the small, precious moments that make each day worth celebrating.
