You’re holding in your hands our one and only “Pink Paper” of the year, printed every October for Breast Cancer Awareness Month as both a tribute to breast cancer survivors and to promote greater public awareness about the disease.
This year alone, the American Cancer Society estimates that some 12,830 people in Pennsylvania will learn from their doctors that they have breast cancer. The diagnosis can be life-changing — but it does not extinguish hope of survival.
In fact, more women than ever are surviving breast cancer. This is thanks to the great advances in modern science and medicine, as well as early detection — and the generosity of people like you who contribute to cancer research and care for patients.
In the fight against breast cancer, no patient is alone in the battle. That’s why reading this Pink Paper, and wearing pink this month, are so important. They are acts of solidarity with all women battling breast cancer, and acts of awareness to help millions of others look out for themselves so they can prevent the disease from impacting them.
The most important thing to be aware of in the fight against breast cancer is the importance of early detection. The earlier a doctor detects breast cancer, the greater the odds the patient will survive and live many more years.
That means getting your mammogram. Don’t put it off. Get one as often as your primary care provider prescribes. This is especially true for those of you who are at higher risk of contracting breast cancer due to family history or other factors.
Self-test, and see your doctor regularly. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or talk with them about what you may experience. It is always better safe than sorry.
If you are diagnosed with breast cancer, do not lose hope. Know that you have the active support of your family, friends and medical team — and the support of all of us. Know that in this battle, you are a warrior who can draw strength from this powerful network throughout the journey to overcome this terrible disease.
There will hopefully come a day when breast cancer will become a malady of the past. We hope that day comes soon. But until that time, let’s continue to “think pink,” support breast cancer patients, and do all we can to help them survive!
Victoria Schneps
Joshua Schneps
Co-Publishers
