It’s true. You never know what people are going through.

In this case, that person is me. I’ve been going through breast cancer. I didn't like saying it, talking about it or writing about it.

Detected it early and beating it. Rang the bell at my last radiation treatment this morning.

I’ve received a few certificates throughout my life – from school, sports, and work – but the one I received this morning is the one I’m most proud of. “Completed the prescribed course of radiation therapy with the highest degree of courage, determination and good nature.” ?

I’m pretty sure that I was not courageous and good natured the entire time, but I was certainly determined. And I was grateful. Grateful that each year without fail that I had a mammogram.

By mid-pandemic an estimated 41% of U.S. adults (about 105 million people) had forgone in-person medical care according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

A 2020 survey by the Epic Health Research Network revealed missed screenings nationwide totaled 285,000 for breast cancer, 95,000 for colon cancer and 40,000 for cervical cancer.

These are only a few small stats – just think about multiplying these figures across the globe. If you’re currently in one of these groups, please do NOT wait any longer.

Why share my story? Because the work that I am so passionate about in diversity, equity and inclusion encourages transparency. And because the old adage is true…if sharing my story helps just one person, then it’s worth it. Just this week, my wonderful friend at work who was two years overdue for her mammogram just made her appointment because of our conversation. Countless other family members and friends have promised the same. Whether it is for a mammogram, a wellness check, counseling, a dentist appointment, therapy, a colonoscopy, or anything else, don’t put it off any longer.

I was lucky. Early detection and annual screenings made all the difference on my prognosis. Coupled with trying hard to manage my health and fitness, my body was ready to fight and recover much easier than it might have been if I had neglected my wellbeing.

So now, this isn’t about me. It’s about you.

I may not know what you’re going through – whether physical, emotional, or psychological – but I do know that when you take care of yourself and you let people in to help you, it gives you the most amazing faith, strength, and energy that you didn’t even realize you had.

Time to stop reading…time for you to make that call.