My turn to weigh in on the Facebook bra controversy. As a breast cancer survivor, I have to say: Let's lighten up.
It has been almost 9 years since my diagnosis, surgery and treatment. When I was first diagnosed, there was so much I didn't know or understand. Science was never my strong point to start with. I wanted to put on rose colored glasses and have the world be pretty. I wanted kindness, compassion, hope. That was how I coped with the words "Breast Cancer." Other women have coped with humor, with music, with support groups. Cancer is not right or wrong, Cancer treatment is not right or wrong. Cancer is. Treatment is.
When I was diagnosed, I was still on the Barker Board of Education. As a board member and parent of 3 children, I understand that people have a myriad of learning styles and that teaching something once doesn't mean the subject was learned. Every year, there is a new group of students who are starting at square one. Some teachers continued to teach the same grade, some changed.
Cancer support is the same: new people are being diagnosed, new methods are being developed, new doctors are being trained. Imagine cancer as a diamond. The side you see is cut and polished, but the back is still being processed. Each person who is touched by cancer adds their own flair to our diamond. One day it will be full and shiny. For now, it is still a work in progress.
Having cancer changed me. Today I'm more willing to slow down, to wait things out. I'm also more stubborn - I know what I want in my health care, where I want to spend my time and efforts.
So for those who posted your bra color - good for you. There are many who benefited from your support.
For those who chose to ignore it - good for you. There are many independent people who want to cope in their own way.
For thsoe who protest and think it was terrible - good for you. Now help us find a way to do something that will meet your needs to.
Today it is plain, old white - but the pocket is still there. Every July 12 we celebrate the fact that I have the pocket - a part of my body may be gone, but I'm not! I'll be toasting on that day - I hope you can toast good health on whatever day you can celebrate.
A votre sante (To your good health!)
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