This time of year always holds a special place in my heart because October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It’s the annual opportunity for women to unify, update and uplift one another in an effort to create awareness on breast-cancer issues.
Over the years, I have had several friends who have been diagnosed with the disease, have gone through chemotherapy and have come out as survivors! But it is with honor that I dedicate this to my late girlfriend Selby Barrett.
Selby passed away from breast cancer in 2007 after a valiant three-year battle. An amazing mother, wife and friend, she fought selflessly and maintained a smile on her face until the very end. Seeing my good friend face life head on so heroically encouraged me to continue to inform and inspire others.
Aside from skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. Early in my career I decided to become active in promoting breast-cancer awareness. Along with participating in various efforts, including the EIF Revlon Run/Walk for Women, I was given the fabulous and unforgettable opportunity to host Women Rock!, Lifetime’s annual signature concert, which was part of the network’s Stop Breast Cancer for Life campaign. The star-studded gala paid tribute to survivors and those dedicated to promoting breast-cancer awareness. It was a moving experience that reminds me to this day to share my voice with my female community.
Ladies, please make sure that you go to your ob-gyn each year to discuss preventive measures. Once you reach 40, sign up for mammograms, which may detect hidden lumps and other signs of breast cancer. And don’t be afraid to conduct your own breast exams. This can be as simple as a quick check while in the bed or in the shower. If you feel a lump, or have discharge from your nipples, consult your doctor immediately. Along with a healthy diet and exercise, preventive medicine is the best medicine.
Remember, girls: Take care of yourself, and more important, take care of your breasts! For more information, visit nbcam.org.
ABOVE: Vivica A. Fox at the dinner held at the Alice+Olivia store at the Malibu Lumber Yard in Malibu, California
