My video posts have been off schedule lately and since October
is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I wanted to let you
know why.
I have been undergoing treatment for breast cancer. I had surgery and will begin radiation treatments soon. have been good about getting yearly mammograms and that was never so important than this year. I got that call, suspicious spots were found. I thought they were probably calcification again, but called for an appointment to the Breast Heath Center at a large hospital nearby. I was given an appointment the next week. The oncologist wanted to do a biopsy that week. Then the diagnosis came. I had breast cancer. Surgery was scheduled for the following week. Praise God we caught it early and the surgeon was able to remove it all. I'm in the midst of having tests done to prepare for radiation treatments. I may be a few days off on posting, as this week, (instead of my usual Monday, it's Saturday) but I will keep trying to maintain a schedule:) It's good for me to stay busy and stamping is FUN!
Because breast cancer has touched far too many lives, including mine. I am now a breast cancer survivor, and I am carrying that gratitude into four actions:
- Reminding everyone I know to get their yearly mammograms
- Using The Stampin' Up! Love and Courage stamp set, which was designed to uplift and comfort those affected by breast cancer. Every purchase includes a $3 donation from Stampin’ Up! toward global breast cancer support efforts.
- Developing a program at my church to make Chemo Bags for those undergoing treatment. These pink canvas tote bags will include several items to comfort recipients such as a pink, soft cuddly throw, body lotion for sensitive skin, a soft head cap, a book of devotionals by Lysa TerKeurst, aluminum-free clean deodorant, organic anti-nausea lozenges, lip ointment, pink tumbler for drinks etc.
- Letting people know of fundraising for cancer research. My experience has been so much better than that of people I know who went through it 20 years ago. I am so blessed and very thankful.
As I am going through treatment, friends and family have lifted me up. A sweet friend gave me a chemo bag,. Friends brought meals to us after my surgery. So soooo many people lifted me up in their prayers! That support has meant the world to me!
Because of this experience, I know how much every single dollar that has been given to cancer research matters! Besides the vital research that has helped countless women survive, donations also help provide:
- Treatment and support for patients when insurance or money falls short
- Resources and programs that bring comfort, dignity, and hope
- Community and outreach so no one feels alone in this fight
I've done some research to determine the best charitable organizations. I specifically looked at transparency and accountability, financial efficiency, community engagement, and the amount of money raised. Two of the top organizations who raise money for breast cancer research are The Breast Cancer Research Foundation and The American Cancer Society. The Breast Cancer Research Foundation is the largest private funder of breast cancer research worldwide they announced a record-breaking investment of $74.75 million for breast cancer research in 2025-2026.
