Breast cancer -- A family story

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Tawny Halvorson
  • 9th Reconnaissance Wing Public Affairs
It's one of my first memories from my childhood, and it haunts me.

I was sitting in the living room combing my mom's hair and it just seemed to fall out -- all of it.

At six years old, I was affected by something most people may never experience. Although, according to the American Cancer Society, one in eight women will.

My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer when she was 29 years old. She was a young wife and mother of a 5-year-old and a 2-year-old. I can only imagine what thoughts flooded her mind.

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. America brings out pink ribbons and commercials about the most common cancer in women. Campaigns kick off and fundraisers move into a higher gear. All of these aim at defeating a cancer that is killing our nation's women.

After 17 years with a cancer-free mom, being part of a family afflicted with breast cancer became a reality again. In January, my maternal grandmother was diagnosed with breast cancer. Within a few months, she had a mastectomy, and I had my first mammogram.

Early detection is key to the survival of patients diagnosed with breast cancer. Self-exams and mammograms are the best forms of detection. Self-exams should begin as early as age 20. Also, women should schedule a clinical breast examination at least every three years.

Mammography should begin at age 40. Since I have a family history of breast cancer with first-degree relatives, doctors suggested I start at age 21.

Whether a member of your family has had breast cancer or not, it is a disease women and men must be aware of. Breast cancer is a disease that affects everyone.

During the month of October, I remember just how strong and brave my mom is. I will call her to tell her I love her and make sure things are going well. I'll write a letter to my grandma to let her know how I'm doing too. Then again, I do all of that every month. Maybe this month it'll just be a little more special. (Courtesy of Air Combat Command News Service)