Outshining the Bully

Here it is again, the first of October, the start of Breast Cancer Awareness Month . I know having the spotlight on breast cancer is important, but it stirs unwelcome thoughts for me. This month always brings a mix of emotions—a blend of pink ribbons and fundraisers intertwined with the uneasy feelings that resurface.

Cancer is a bully. It barges into your life uninvited, steals your peace, and leaves scars that run deeper than any physical mark. Even as you move forward, you can never truly return to the time before it entered your world—not in the same way, at least. It takes away your freedom, ravages your body, and commandeers your thoughts when you least expect it.

Every year, I make the hour-long drive to my checkup appointments. You'd think that over time, these visits would become routine, but they haven't. Instead, I spend that drive dreading the appointment, my mind racing with "what ifs." This year, I found many reasons to reschedule my appointment, convincing myself each time that something else was more pressing. It's not entirely rational, I know, but that drive is surprisingly scary. Eventually, I had to face it. This year; I had to undergo additional tests—not because of any alarming signs, but because it's been so many years since I overcame this bully.

Adding to the emotional weight, I've heard about three relatives and friends who have been diagnosed with breast cancer this year alone. Each new diagnosis feels like a personal blow, a stark reminder of the relentless nature of this disease. Yet, I take comfort in the significant advancements made since my treatment. Medical science has progressed, offering new hope and improved outcomes for those now facing this battle.

But amidst the fear and uncertainty, there are moments of unity and hope. The Ediphi team kicked off October by wearing all pink—a small yet powerful gesture. Just today, our team dressed in pink for our stand-up meeting. Seeing everyone come together in a sea of pink reminds me that we're connected in this experience.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is more than just donning pink attire; it's about acknowledging the battles—both visible and invisible—that many endure. It's about supporting one another, raising awareness, and advocating for advancements in treatment and care.

In the end, I realize that I am still one of the lucky ones. I know that I am privileged to speak about my journey, to share my experiences, and to offer support to those who are going through it. While cancer has altered my journey, it hasn't defined it. This October, as the world turns pink, I find strength in solidarity and hope in progress. Perhaps the true power against this bully lies not just in medicine, but in our shared resilience and the quiet support we offer each other.