As published by the Mayo Clinic – second to skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women in the United States.

Contrary to popular belief, breast cancer can occur in men. How in the HEALTH Does That Happen? It is not clear what causes male breast cancer. The Mayo Clinic shares that “Doctors know that male breast cancer occurs when some breast cells divide more rapidly than healthy cells do. The accumulating cells form a tumor that may spread (metastasize) to nearby tissue, to the lymph nodes or to other parts of the body”. Breast cancer, however is more common in women.

Research and awareness is contributing greatly to the decline in deaths associated with breast cancer. Early detection is of major importance. I know quite a few women who have had to battle breast cancer and fortunately lived to tell their story. My friend, a breast cancer survivor and one of my favorite Nurse Practitioners is making strides encouraging women to take advantage of early detection.

“I was diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer with no family history. So like everyone, I said it couldn’t happen to me until it happened to me. Get your mammogram and do self breast exams.”

Support Nicole as she raises funds for breast cancer research. She will be participating in the Making Strides of Atlanta Presented By Independent Insurance Agents For A Cure Walk on Saturday, October 27th. Click the link below to make a donation and/or join Nicole’s Team – “Pink Warriors”

Click Here to Donate or Join Pink Warriors

This is what it looks like when you beat breast cancer and celebrate another trip around the sun. My aunt Dee Dee is a thriving survivor! 💖

“Connect with positive people for strength during the Journey. Be Encouraged, take one day at a time to Focus on your health, your peace, and Your VICTORY!!!” -Dee Dee

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Signs and symptoms of breast cancer may include:

• A breast lump or thickening that feels different from the surrounding tissue

• Change in the size, shape or appearance of a breast

• Changes to the skin over the breast, such as dimpling

• A newly inverted nipple

• Peeling, scaling, crusting or flaking of the pigmented area of skin surrounding the nipple (areola) or breast skin

• Redness or pitting of the skin over your breast, like the skin of an orange

When to see a doctor:

If you find a lump or other change in your breast, even if a recent mammogram was normal – make an appointment with your doctor for prompt evaluation.

Resource: Mayo Clinic

IMPORTANT: How to Perform a Breast Self-Exam!

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Below are links for a few Breast Cancer Awareness efforts that you may support!

The FightHER headwrap – 25% percent of this month’s Inspired Pink Collection will be awarded to a fighter or survivor through a random drawing.

Issa Wrap Inspired Collection – FightHER

Hosted by:  I Will Survive Inc. – Founder: Anisa Palmer

Event Photos