So the good news is you probably won’t hear about my breasts for a while because, I am happy to report, they are benign! I have 2 confirmed fibroadenomas and a sclerosing adenosis but they are benign and get to stay put. We’ll check them out again in 6 months with another MRI. So for now, let’s talk about your breasts. Yep. Yours. You too, men! The American Cancer Society reports that the average risk of a woman in the United States developing breast cancer sometime in her life is about 12%. This means there is a 1 in 8 chance she will develop breast cancer. 1 in 1,000 men in the U.S. will develop breast cancer.
Ironically, prior to my mammogram and subsequent biopsies, I was selected to participate in the Falmouth Road Race as a member of the Susan G. Komen team. Following my recent mammogram results, I was invited to participate in a research study at Beth Israel Hospital in Boston. A study such as this one is made possible through research grants. Susan G. Komen has funded more breast cancer research than any other non-profit (more than $956 million to date, second only to the U.S. government.
Last week marked the 7th anniversary of my friend Jeanette’s passing, at age 35, from breast cancer. My sister Sharon is currently fighting this disease. No one fight’s alone so I hope you’ll join me in this fight by considering a donation to my fundraising efforts. Each selected participant is required to raise at least $1,000 and I know I will crush this goal with your support.
As soon as my boobs are cleared to run, I’ll be doing so in earnest to train for this event. I have a lot of ground to cover in a short period of time. It won’t be easy but it will be easier than fighting breast cancer.
I want to thank everyone for their support and loving me through this period of uncertainty. I’ve always been an open blog because I feel we’re stronger and better together. If you’ve been putting off a mammogram, don’t. Make an appointment as soon as you can. Your tribe will love you through it.
When you're weak, I'll be strong
When you let go, I'll hold on When you need to cry, I swear That I'll be there to dry your eyes When you feel lost and scared to death, Like you can't take one more step Just take my hand, together we can do it I'm gonna love you through it.
And when this road gets too long I'll be the rock you lean on Just take my hand, together we can do it I'm gonna love you through it. I'm gonna love you through it.
-Martina McBride