Celebrating Pinktober - Top Tips Tuesday Special Edition

Every year in the month of October the world celebrates Breast Cancer Awareness Month or Pinktober as they sometimes call it. When I think about breast cancer my heart leaps because I know persons who are battling, died but most importantly, persons who have survived. It can be a very sensitive topic to discuss but it is pivotal that we “stay woke” about Breast Cancer and practice ways we can support those who are fighting the constant battle. Take a walk with me down to my top tips lane as we end the month of Pinktober on a positive note.

Read about it – It doesn’t hurt to read. When we read we are exposed to new knowledge or we reinforce the information that we already knew. Reading about breast cancer can allow you to be more knowledgeable about the phenomena and prepare you on how to relate to persons/ families that are fighting the battle every day.

Care for those who are fighting- I realize that individuals are often hesitant to share their illnesses especially when they have cancer. If by chance you find out that someone you know is fighting the breast cancer battle, care for them. Small goodies, monetary gifts, or even a call or text can go a long way.

Try not to question them about it- As I said earlier, breast cancer is a sensitive topic for many. Try to limit the number of questions you ask when interacting with those on the battlefield or the survivors. It can be overbearing and may evoke feelings they are working tirelessly to get over.

Allow them to feel the feelings they feel – It's not easy learning that you are diagnosed with breast cancer. Allow victims to experience the emotions they feel and help them where possible. It’s not about you, it’s all about them.

Pray for them – Whispered prayers ride the wings of angels from earth to heaven. If you are a firm believer in Christ you will recognize the importance of praying for others. Remember when you pray to mention their strength and healing. Always remember that our prayers are like requests and so sometimes they may not turn out in our favor but pray anyway. God knows all things well. While both men and women struggle with breast cancer. In Jamaica, breast cancer mostly affects women. I encourage us to keep the fire burning for those who have fought, those who are still fighting, and those who have succumbed to this disease.

I want to dedicate this article to Juliet Mullings, a breast cancer survivor, Christene Soutar who is currently fighting the battle, my cousin, Jerusha Vaz who passed away in 2014, and a student of mine who lost her mother to this disease recently. We are praying for better days, better years, and promising life. Keep fighting, Pinktober Strong!

On October 28th the Royalty Foundation will be having a fish fry to raise funds and all proceeds will go to Christene.

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