This year, for the first time, I felt like I was a part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and not just an observer. This was because of a number of very special people who most likely have no idea of the impact that they have had on me and a whole new set of goals of mine that will last long after the last pink ribbon is put away for another year at the end of the month. Therefore, I would like to honor these special individuals/groups for the work that they have done and are doing. I know that each one of them has made a major difference for many others
For the first time ever, I have seen love and caring and an appreciation for life and living as I had never before seen. I see so many people reaching out to help one another whether it be in the form of advice, shared experiences, support and/or just a laugh to make someone else’s day a little better. I feel so very proud to be a part of something that is so much bigger and better than what I could ever create by myself and from the bottom of my heart, I thank each and every person who has given my life a whole new meaning.as well as for me and for that I would like to acknowledge them.
Healthline – In August, the editors named my blog as “A Top Pick Breast Cancer Blog of 2012”. This acknowledgment has spurred me on to do even more in my efforts to inspire others who are dealing with breast cancer and to provide as much updated information as I can find for those who are seeking information in the arena of new research, drugs/therapy and assistance with any needs that they may have. And in case you missed them, Healthline recently finished compiling its list of the best breast cancer awareness videos of 2012.
Dr. Tanya Douglas-Holland, MD – This dynamic medical professional who is currently living in the Atlanta is leading the way in helping women to take charge of their own mental, emotional and physical health like never before. She chose to honor me on October 3rd by sharing my story and some of what I have learned along the way through her website’s series titled “Wonderful Wednesdays”.
Kirk, my husband – My rock, through all things breast cancer related and my life, secretly trained to run his first ever 10K on October 7th in order to raise funds for breast cancer research. He chose to carry with him the names of those that family, friends and social media associates chose to honor whether they are currently fighting the battle, are survivors, had lost their battle or were caregivers to those with cancer. This was his way to honor me but he gave me so much more by providing me with my first time of attending such a fund raiser and sharing the same space as some of the most incredible people you could ever imagine.
Dr. Saul Berger & New Age Aesthetics – Dr. Berger, my top medical professional and my “hero” through some very tough times, and his team hosted a Breast Reconstruction Awareness event on October 17th in what is the first ever BRA Day being held by cosmetic surgeons both domestically and internationally. This brings to light an area associated with breast cancer that has previously been pretty much ignored and definitely underserved. I was shocked to learn that 7 out of every 10 women who have a mastectomy have never been advised about what their reconstruction options might be and in many cases, their insurance won’t even cover this procedure. Now, I am on another new mission.
Siemens – This Company has put its heart into their online campaign ‘Turn Your City Pink!’ to raise awareness of breast cancer. To mark the end of their campaign, they organized an international get-together to provide an opportunity for all those who, like them, are using online channels to campaign for increased public awareness of cancer and early cancer detection to meet and exchange ideas. I was invited to join the get-together as one of their 12 international participants (from Germany, Switzerland, USA and other countries) which was held on October 20th in London. Although I was not able to attend, I was so honored to be invited and I am looking forward to their sharing of the ideas discussed.
Mostly, I am so very grateful for all of the people that I have met through social media. For the first time ever, I have seen love and caring and an appreciation for life and living as I had never before seen. I see so many people reaching out to help one another whether it be in the form of advice, shared experiences, support and/or just a laugh to make someone else’s day a little better. I feel so very proud to be a part of something that is so much bigger and better than what I could ever create by myself and from the bottom of my heart, I thank each and every person who has given my life a whole new meaning. You’ve let me know that I matter and I want you to know that you truly matter to me.
Barbara Jacoby is an award winning blogger that has contributed her writings to multiple online publications that have touched readers worldwide.