Hello, natural divas!!! Today is Happy Black Girl Day, and in recognition, today's post will be all about taking care of self. October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and there are all types of walks, fundraisers, and prevention awareness. The most important thing that we must do is conduct a monthly breast exam. Check in the mirror, feel in the shower, even have your mate feel your breast to see if there are any abnormal lumps. To make things easy, pick a date each month, like your birthdate or favorite number, to check yourself. Next, know that there are foods that aid in the prevention of breast cancer, specifically for African-America women. Those foods are broccoli, greens, and carrots. Having two of these veggies per day reduce your likelihood of developing breast cancer. Lastly, know your risk factors. Have your family members had cancer? If so, not only should you be checking at home, but you should also get checked during your annual check-up with your physician.
I recently met a breast cancer survivor a few weeks ago. This person was a man-yes, men can get breast cancer, too-who discovered he had breast cancer while training for a track meet. He had bleeding from his chest, but ignored it. As he was training, he got injured and had to go to the doctor. When asked if he was suffering from anything else, he mentioned the bleeding. It was discovered he had Stage 3 breast cancer and probably wouldn't live to see 31. Add to this the fact his grandfather was dying of cancer as well didn't help. I am happy to report this young man celebrated his 31st birthday last week and has recovered 100%!
So yes, I know this is Happy Black Girl Day, but any story of triumph belongs to us all!!! See what you can do to support breast cancer in your neighborhood, and make sure that you are always aware. Stay nappturally beautiful...and healthy! (Don't forget to wear your pink ribbon this month!)
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