It’s that time of year that most Minnesotans love. The perfect temps and the trees are a blaze in autumn glory. It’s the fall season, but October means so much more.

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness month. It started October 1985, with the first campaign in the U.S. to bring attention to breast cancer. This month-long campaign branches out internationally to bring global awareness.   

Most of us know or have been impacted by someone with breast cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, it is one of the “most common cancers among women besides skin cancer.” And it happens to men. “In the U.S., less than one percent of all breast cancer occurs in men,” says komen.org.

The pink ribbon has become a symbol of breast cancer awareness. Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure has used this ribbon since 1982. 

“This ribbon signifies the promise (Komen Founder) Nancy G. Brinker made to her dying sister, Susan G. Komen, to do what she could to end breast cancer.” 

The fight continues.

I spoke with some women who have faced and are currently facing breast cancer. Their personal stories are compelling.

Deb was a classmate and a friend. We met this past September. We reminisced on school, people and breast cancer. As hard as it was, Deb shared her story. She was honest and conveyed the reality of it all - the fear, the pain and the struggle.

In February of 2021, she noticed that her breast was partially swollen and it hurt. She went to the doctor and tests were done. A mammogram and ultrasound were scheduled. From there, a breast biopsy. In a matter of two weeks, the results stated she had Lobular Breast Cancer. Next, an MRI. 

Lobular accounts for about 10-15 percent of all breast cancers. It is harder to find as it doesn’t lump together, it grows like a tree branch. Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC) is the most common. Eighty percent of women have this form - it’s where you feel a lump. Both are breast cancers, but they are different and do not respond to the same treatment. 

Deb faced grueling rounds of chemo, radiation, double mastectomy and removal of her axillary lymph nodes. Currently, Deb is considered NED (No evidence of disease). She is on hormone blockers and oral chemo. Deb says she is changing her mindset and executing a healthy lifestyle that will prevent cancer recurrence. God continues to be a source of strength.

Jeannie was 49 when she was diagnosed with Ductal Carcinoma in 2012. Masses were found in and around her left breast. Like Deb, Jeannie endured rounds of chemo, radiation and eventually, a double mastectomy. Jeannie is here today and living 10 years cancer free. She continues to help others who are going through what she went through. Jeannie feels blessed and says, “I owe it all to God, my doctors, family and friends.”

Asha, 33, a young mother of two, married and a school nurse was diagnosed April of 2021, with “Invasive Ductal Carcinoma with lymph node involvement breast cancer.” So young and definitely not the median age, which is 62 according to cancer.org. Like Deb and Jeannie, she has undergone chemo, radiation and a double mastectomy. She still faces challenges ahead and she does it with a smile. She radiates positivity and a fighting spirit.  She shares messages of hope like this, “Attitude is a little thing that makes a big deal, “Winston Churchill. 

Sheila was a grade behind me in school. She was diagnosed with Ductal Carcinoma in September during a regular checkup. Sheila approaches breast cancer with great faith and a positive outlook. She believes God is with her and He is her strength.

Jennifer Edwards was a staple here in Big Lake for years covering stories at the Tribune. I was saddened to learn, she recently lost her battle to stage four breast cancer.  

“The human spirit is stronger than anything that can happen to it,” C.C. Scott. To say I am amazed at these women would be understatement. Their stories have taught me so much. They have faced the ultimate battle and have bravely reminded me to be grateful for good health.

While all cancers deserve our attention, this month is dedicated to breast cancer - the survivors, the ones in battle and the ones no longer here.“  

Stay on top of those exams and preventative measures. It’s important.