"Celebrating October: From Pumpkin Spice to Pink Ribbons ???? #BreastCancerAwareness"

"Celebrating October: From Pumpkin Spice to Pink Ribbons ???? #BreastCancerAwareness"

October is finally here! Oh how I adore this enchanting month! It's the time when the world awakens with the aroma of pumpkin-spiced delights. From lattes and donuts to freshly baked bread and even pumpkin-flavored beer and hummus – it's a symphony of autumn flavors that dance upon the palate. And who could forget the curious Pumpkin Spice Pizza – perhaps an adventure for another day.

Then there's the thrill of Halloween, transforming my yard into a spine-tingling graveyard and carefully selecting the perfect costume to distribute Halloween candy (the dilemma of what to do with all those leftovers lingers). This year, my alter ego takes the form of the mysterious Millificient.

As of yesterday, everything took on a pink hue for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. My mind drifts back to 1990 when I was part of the team at Prescriptives, an Estee Lauder brand, tasked with spreading awareness about breast cancer through the iconic pink ribbon. I even laced up my running shoes for the inaugural New York City Race for the Cure in 1991. Little did I know that this endeavor would reshape my career path.

Evelyn Lauder, the driving force behind breast cancer awareness, left an indelible mark on me. She was the epitome of elegance and grace, radiating warmth. Over lunch, I asked her what she believed was the most crucial quality in a leader, and her response, "always remember the power of thank you," has been my guiding light ever since.

The impact of the pink ribbon campaign has been profound, elevating awareness of breast cancer and encouraging regular screenings among women. Many organizations and companies have rallied behind this cause, spawning various initiatives and campaigns. This concerted effort has fueled public understanding about early detection and regular screening, leading to a surge in mammograms and other breast cancer screenings. According to the American Cancer Society, the number of women receiving mammograms surged significantly since the campaign's inception, from 29% in 1987 to 65% in 2015, resulting in earlier breast cancer detection and improved survival rates.

Yet, despite these strides, the American Cancer Society estimated that in 2021, there would be roughly 281,550 new cases of invasive breast cancer in the United States, along with 49,290 new cases of non-invasive breast cancer. Breast cancer remains the most prevalent cancer among women in the US, excluding skin cancers. Sadly, about 30% of new cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, when the cancer has spread beyond the breast, a grim reality known as metastatic or advanced breast cancer.

Today, I am honored to be part of AstraZeneca's mission, where the world's finest scientists and marketers tirelessly work to save lives through groundbreaking therapies, particularly in breast cancer. AstraZeneca's contributions, including vital drugs like tamoxifen, Lynparza, and the remarkable Enhertu, stand as a testament to their dedication to advancing breast cancer research and treatment. We eagerly anticipate several more game-changing medications slated to hit the market in the next three years.

At 39, I underwent my first mammogram after discovering a lump. Fortunately, it turned out to be benign, but that experience led me to schedule an annual mammogram every year around August 12th, Evelyn's birthday. Following this ritual, I indulge in new makeup from an Estee Lauder company and treat myself to chocolate mousse, a shared fondness with Evelyn. This October, I implore all of you to make a recurring date with yourself for screening. Procrastination won't shield you, it will only bring sorrow.

October carries with it the enduring wish from my youthful days – the hope to eradicate breast cancer entirely. I also hold in my heart all my friends, colleagues, and family members who have confronted breast cancer, whether through the fear and struggle of treatment or the unimaginable loss it brought.

For those of you already getting screened every year, I applaud your commitment. Spread the word to others.

Remember also please, that our collective efforts mean that we must continue supporting those battling advanced breast cancer. They need emotional, medical, and financial support, regardless of their financial means or ability to access treatment.

We can and will conquer this disease together.

With that, I extend my warmest wishes to all for a thrilling Halloween and a toast with perhaps a pumpkin-infused Martini to celebrate the spirit of October.

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