Monday Facetime: The Other Side of the PINK Couch.

by

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G-041gnYLjY

Edited to say: This one shot wonder misspoke while filming.

My inspiration, my fabulous great aunt, is a 55 year survivor of breast cancer.

Some random PINK LINKS for your perusal:

*FREE TREATS during the month of October.

*Mel has gone PINK!

*Reb is pink too!

*wanna have a PINK PARTY (please to not forget *my* pinkvitation!) this site gives you all the info you need.

*A good reminder to FEEL YER BOOBIES!

*An all over the internet, but always a great listen Mya’s My Bra song.

(did I miss *your* PINK LINK? Please to leave it for us in the comments. If I linked all I loved this post would be a mass o’clickage.)

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Comments

  1. I think people I see in my everyday life that are struggling with cancer inspire me more. They don’t have the money etc that celebs have which I know doesn’t fix things but it can’t hurt either – they can buy the best health care, avoid waiting lists and employ people to help them in their lives. I’m not saying they don’t suffer too though, of course they do. I do think that celebs (and everyone) talking about issues is definitely a good thing and helps to break down the stigmas attached to sickness, disability, mental health etc.

    A young woman in my area has battled cancer twice already and it’s now back again. I don’t think she has more than a year left. She has two small children. I saw her the other day with her husband and kids and she was smiling, looking after them, living. It was an amazing thing to see considering what she must be going through in her head and body.

  2. Heavens, when I heard of Miss Applegate’s confrontation with cancer I was rather shocked…I never for a second imagined that Kelly from Married With Children could fall victim to a disease of such a nature…it’s so easy to forget that celebrities are so human after all…also, I misspoke a few sentences ago, as she is very much one who was not a victim, her strength and courage is absolutely inspiring…and that she can stand loud and proud and let it be publicly known that she chose health over vanity, in a land where it’s not always such an obvious choice, I think she’s a pretty great role model.

    That said, my sister has started working in a children’s cancer ward and from what I hear, if you want to see strength and courage, it’s there in abundance…I can’t imagine what is must be like to see a pre-teen comforting his parents in the face of his struggle. I don’t know of one life that hasn’t been touched by cancer in one form or another..

  3. You raise an excellent question. For me, it’s a bit of both. The men and women in my life, especially family, have had the most profound impact. With family, the pain is real, and CLOSE. This hurts, but there is hope, too. The people I’ve known who’ve battled cancer haven risen against the disease with a strength that I can only hope to have if life ever throws me such a challenge.

    I agree that celebrities are important, even if their experience of cancer is very much distilled by what the media chooses to present us. But in that way, celebs can be a huge source of inspiration and hope. And of course, if a celebrity can use their experience to raise awareness and fund research, then I’m all for it.

  4. THANK YOU Crazylady, Monica, and Cara for sharing time for your early morning with us/taking the time to comment so thoroughly.

    A young woman in my area has battled cancer twice already and it’s now back again. I don’t think she has more than a year left.

    I can’t imagine what is must be like to see a pre-teen comforting his parents in the face of his struggle.

    even if their experience of cancer is very much distilled by what the media chooses to present us.

    (I really like your usage of the word DISTILLED)

    resonated with me completely.

    M.

  5. For me it’s both.

    Though the celebrity experience might often be a bit more “cleaned up” and prettyfied, I think it helps take the stigma out of diseases that never should have been stigmatized in the first place. People respond to celebrities as if they know them personally, so they can have broad impact with positive messages.

    (I’m old enough to remember back when people didn’t even want to say the word “cancer” out loud and it was considered something to hide from the world as long as possible. I’m glad times have changed!)

  6. me too, crabby, with regards to the whisper.

    I asked my great aunt’s SISTER initially about the length of time since her sister’s mastectomy and she said, essentially, that she barely knew when it happened.

    that, at that time (my aunt, the survivor, is 89), NO ONE TALKED ABOUT IT.

    made my heart ACHE for how lonely, isolated, scared my aunt must have been.

    at least now—-no matter WHO triggered the openness (celebs vs us lay peeps)—-there are support groups etc.

    thank goodness no more whispering.

  7. I would say its definitely the people close to me that inspire me the most. While I think it’s noble when celebrities use their fame to bring awareness to something, it’s definitely the “regular” folks struggling with day to day life that brings it home.

    One of our neighbors was recently told he probably has about two months left as he battles lung cancer. And his biggest concern? The 23 year old young man he raised as a step-father. Heartbreaking and inspiring.

  8. (momentarily pulling head out of sand on this one)

    I guess it would have to be people like you, Miz, who advocate for the caust that provide me any motivation or inspiration.

    I have been blessed in my life to NOT have been touched by cancer’s poisonous fingers. Thus my non-involvement other than acknowledging that it’s awareness month.

    Other things puff me up, don’t get me wrong. Heart disease, diabetes, childhood obesity…there you have my total attention. Those health issues are my touchstones.

    *tucking head back in sand*

  10. Inspired? No. Standing at the door with a bottle of wine, a meal, personal stories to share, or the shelter for a screaming cursing vent? Yes.

    Lost Mother-in-law 3 months after first son was born.
    Neighbor friend lost her battle last summer.
    Friend just finished simultaneous chemo/radiation.
    Husband 4 weeks away from 5 years out.

  11. Call me mean, but the first thing that pops into my head when I hear about celebrities with cancer is “Gee, at least they can afford good health care.”

    Believe it or not, I don’t have ANY relatives or close friends with cancer. I have one friend who had painful surgery to remove a suspicious breast lump, but it turned out to be nothing.

    But of course I think it’s a great thing to be aware of.

  13. I have never been close to someone who has struggled with cancer. But my husband works on the medical oncology floor at the hospital and comes home daily with stories of triumph, stories of heart break, stories that give you chills, stories that make you cry. Sometimes when I think about the future, I start worrying because I know it’s just a matter of time before someone I love gets diagnosed with this disease. I know I should be more aware of it and prepare myself with knowledge, but I guess that’s slowly coming from my husbands “closeness” with the disease.

  14. ok. I only have a moment with my thumbs BUT wanted to give a BIG THANK YOU to Dragonmamma.

    (More on the amazingnessment which is the mamma to come….)

    That is precisely the debate I have in my own mind often.

    Everything from early detection because they can afford it to the best treatment their home country can offer to **flying all over the world** for alternative therapies.

    M.

  15. Lots of people close to me have had cancer – my mother-in-law had breast cancer just before I met my husband 12 years ago (she’s doing great!), my aunt had breast cancer about 7 years ago (doing great!), my dad’s best friend and mentor to me had colorectal cancer a few years ago (doing GREAT!), one of my best friends in the world had Hodgkin’s lymphoma at the age of 23 (doing great, 2 years+ later!) and my old college roommate, who has a 7 year-old son, has metastatic breast cancer that in all heartbreakingly reality probably spread from a spot she was told not to worry about.

    I think the tendency is to canonize anyone who is fighting a disease like this, and maybe that’s not a bad thing, but I have to say that I was so impressed by how each of these people dealt with it. In one case (my good friend with lymphoma) I witnessed her consoling her friends about HER cancer because they didn’t know how to deal with it.

    That really struck me. Here’s someone with Stage 3 fricking CANCER, and she’s still able to dig deep to be the rock for her friends? WOW. THAT is a woman warrior.

  16. I would definitely say every day people. The regular mom in my neighborhood who appears to be “super Mom” to me because she can get through the battle of life without money and nannies and housekeepers.
    And side-note…Holy Fabulous Arms Miz! I’ve got a lot to learn from YOU! Definitely inspiring.

  17. I think it’s great when celebrities come out and share their struggles….just like anything, it’s comforting to see that even they are affected by horrible illnesses. Well – not comforting – but it just makes it seem like, okay, they aren’t immune to this, either.

    I am SO GRATEFUL that no one close to me has been affected by cancer. I praise the Lord everyday for that.

    Thanks for letting us all think and be grateful, on a Monday no less!

  18. While I have personally been inspired by “every day” people, I’m in awe of those celebrities who step forward and acknowledge their illnesses, or even some of their non-illnesses (I’ll get back to that).

    Personally, I couldn’t care less who is dating who, who what so-and-so’s favorite breed of dog is. With that said it’s clear from the rag magazines and TV shows like TMZ that celebrities live under a microscope. It’s refreshing when they choose to use that power of celebrity in a manner that brings attention to serious topics such as breast cancer. And let’s face it, it cannot be easy to have your face on the cover of People Magazine with the headline, “She’s Fighting Breast Cancer”.

    I remember when Rock Hudson came out with the acknowledgement that he had AIDS … a disease that up until that time wasn’t discussed in our society. Perhaps if it was, it wouldn’t have become the epidemic that it became.

    Way before then I recall when Phyllis Diller announced that she had a face lift and plastic surgery. It may seem silly now as cosmetic procedures are widely accepted, but in 1973 this was a very hush-hush topic.

    If celebrities like Christina Applegate, Sheryl Crowe, Melissa Etheridge and others (there are many, many more) are open about their struggles with breast cancer, perhaps that means one more lump caught in an early stage.

    Susan
    http://www.catapultfitnessblog.com

  19. thank you thank you thank you all for sharing. this month has alway been one of GRATITUDE for me and, as I age, it has simply bled into the other 11 of the year (Facetime on Gratitude board and Vision board coming…)

    and SHK? thank you for this:

    And side-note…Holy Fabulous Arms Miz! I’ve got a lot to learn from YOU! Definitely inspiring.

    and it does in fact tie completely into todays post.

    I refuse (Law of Attraction) to lead a fear based life so I do what I can to control what I can.

    I got a bunch of emails this weeknd after the radio show saying:

    YOU HAVE NO FITNESS GOALS?! How do you stay moivated or (my fave!) are you all done? do you think youre (essentially) all that? (smile)

    my goal is sticking around.
    doing what I can with my food and my exercise to live as long a life as I can.
    not a GOAL at all but the backdrop with which I live my life.

    speaking of life…it calls.

    M.

  20. typing while you were susan and I THOUGHT THE SAME THING with Rock…and later with Magic.

    Id not know the Phyllis Diller thing.

    must.google.when.at.computer.

    Miz.

  21. Cancer runs in my family. The “joke” is that nobody lives past 65 – and it is, so far without exception, true. I’m only 30 and have already been described as having “Lynch’s syndrome” which is just a fancy name describing a family history (and therefore perceived genetic weakness) of breast, ovarian and uterine cancers. I get tested every year. And I freak out every year:)

    Thanks for the moving facetime!

  22. I watched my neighbor go through breast cancer treatment. I was always so inspired (more like shocked)because she would ride by on her bike with her head wrapped in a scarf as she was bald from Chemo. She never lost her smile or got the “why me” attitude. She did the treatment all while taking care of her family. I got nervous when I didn’t see her running her normal weekend route….*phew* She is back out there now everyweekend.

    I think that celebrities bring awareness to their causes and I can appreciate that they are “human” but they don’t inspire me. It is the average woman that doesn’t have a makeup artist for when they go out in public, they don’t have a team of people working for them….they still have to take care of their families, and the average woman has to worry how they will pay for the treatment.

  23. Regular folks who battle cancer definitely have my vote.

    My mother died of colon cancer (as did 2 of her sisters).

    It has been over a year since my sister had her surgery for breast cancer.

    Many years ago, shortly after my mother had her surgery for colon cancer, a young woman of our close acquaintance had a baby. During her 6-week post-natal exam, the doctor found something he didn’t like. Long story short, the young woman also had colon cancer. A year later, after a valiant battle during which it spread to her brain, she succumbed, leaving her equally young husband to raise his daughter.

    These are the things that touch my heart and inspire me to assist in the battle to end cancer.

  24. I am really glad that celebrities come forward with their cancer stories because I think it really puts it out there that it can and does happen to anybody. I think Christina Applegate is so brave for having a double mastectomy in her industry (and given her position in it.) It really sends a message that health is more important than looks.

    But I am most inspired by real people. Specifically my mom. She is a 12 year survivor of breast cancer. The reason I run the Komen for the Cure and heart everything pink is her. I keep telling her that I want her to come run the race with me. It is so inspiring to see the survivors in their pink t-shirts running down “survivor lane.” She tells me she feels guilty. Like she got off easy. Can you imagine? She had radiation and chemotherapy, lost all her hair, and still suffers from lymphedema, but she feels like she “got off easy.” It’s one of the reasons I love her.

  25. Celebrities carry a considerable amount of influence with the general public and I think they ought to use that power and influence to get issues like cancer discussed and brought to light.
    On the personal side I give it to the ordinary citizen who doesn’t have scads of money and a big PR machine on her side. I take my influence from the ordinary people who find extraordinary strength to get out of bed every day and stand up, literally and figuratively, t whatever the Universe throws at them. The Cousin Rebs of the world, if you will.

  26. Fabulous message, Miz!!

    One of my best friends is many years down the road post treatment!!

    Love, love, love, the outfit!!

  27. Definitely don’t care much about the celebrities. Don’t know what they’re up to most of the time, anyway. Although I had heard, amazingly enough, about Christina Applegate’s decision. I think I heard it on NPR.

    It’s the everyday people who inspire me, and those are the women and men I point to when encouraging clients. For example, I once did a triathlon in which an 80-year-old woman raced. And if an 80-year-old woman can do it, so can you!

    I have a few clients who have had mastectomies, and seeing them go through the day-to-day at the gym is wonderfully inspiring.

  28. I think that anything that brings resources, attention and understanding should be put out there – whether it’s a story from a celebrity or an ordinary women. A lot of diseases would not get funding were it not for the celebrity “endorsement” of a particular disease.

    The everyday stories that touch you in real life are the most inspiring, however. My friend had a breast cancer kick off party where she gave away all of her beautiful bras to her friends. Sweet and heartbreaking.

  29. so many stories. BL, Robin, Charlotte on & on and on.

    It can, at times, feel overwhelming.

    One of the most powerful moments on the Oprah where CA was a guest was when an audience member thanked christina for voicing what she’d lived so privately.

    The preventative double mastectomy.

    When they embraced it truly seemed a moment of healing for the woman.

    She seemed to be beyond thankful for the booming voice christina has because of her hollywood connection.

    All food for thought.

  30. Thank you so much for bringing this issue to people that may not have thought about it. Thanks for the link too! I’ve had so many inspiring women with cancer in my family that I’d definatley have to say them. But, I’ve talked about this at length before so I’ll quit on that one 🙂

    I do have to say that I think celebrities are great at making the up coming generation (ok maybe some of us too) think about things they probably wouldn’t have before. Some use their fame poorly, but some really step up to the challenge to be role models and get people helping others. How wonderful is that? 🙂

  31. For me, I would say regular people. But, I think it is good for celebrities to speak out and help raise awareness. Anything that raises awareness is positive.

    I’m with you on: “I refuse (Law of Attraction) to lead a fear based life so I do what I can to control what I can.”

    Right on!!!!

  32. I definitely think the celebs are great at promoting a broader awareness, but it’s the personal connections that make it *real.* I was moved when my aunt survived breast cancer, but the reality of it hit me when two friends–about MY age–dealt with it. Hello, in-your-face–breast cancer happens to all of us. It really made me sit up and acknowledge the reality of it.

  33. I admire my friends with cancer who are every day women of great courage. But I have to say that without the celebs, people with cancer would still be closeted. Katie Couric’s colonoscopy triggered an important discussion that lead to many more people being tested. I think the same is true with breast cancer and self examination.
    Thanks for bringing up an important topic.

  34. and I think, MamaSweat, that sometimes people are UNpleasantly surprised how many people in real life can’t cope with the IN YOUR FACE of cancer.

    How many people are ‘abandoned’ by friends who are forced to face the idea that, by extension of their friend being stricken, they, too, are vulnerable.

    I wonder if then celebs serve as a kind of virtual support system?

    M.

  35. My grandmother’s breast cancer had already spread to her bones by the time the doctors caught on that the “benign tumor” wasn’t. While she was upset when told that she couldn’t ride her bicycle any more (because if she fell and broke something, she’d die), she was overwhelmingly grateful for everything: the nurses/doctors at the cancer center, her neighbors, family, and friends, hell, she even told me once, after complaining about the side effects of chemo, that she should be happy about the nausea and her hair falling out, because it meant that the chemo was working.

    And when diagnosed? she continued to ride her bike, lift weights, and do yoga for as long as she could.

    I can’t think of her and not be inspired.

  36. I think that celebrities are a good way to get people who haven’t been touched by breast cancer aware. I myself am more inspired by people that I KNOW who have been through it. My aunt had breast cancer about 15 years ago, and was in remission until about 5 years ago, which is when she was diagnosed with lymphoma. The fact that she goes for chemo weekly and continues her normal life is amazing. What’s even more amazing is that, in 2006, she walked in the Breast Cancer 3 Day with my mom and her daughter (my cousin) WHILE DOING CHEMO. Seriously, if you’ve never been to a 3 Day closing ceremony, it is so worth it. I drove five hours to be there for my aunt, my mom, and my cousin, and it was worth every minute of boring driving in the car. Those women (and men!!!) are inspiring.

  38. Thanks for all the great pink links! My mom’s best friend and my grandmother is a survivor…their courage is so inspiring.

    We’re doing a “bonus FitBits” tomorrow on being pink. 🙂

  41. I think that they’re all inspiring- seeing the reality and having others spread the awareness is all really inspiring. It’s great that there’s so much involvement in getting the awareness out there right now!

  42. First off love the shorts, I have the same one’s and I wear them all through October!

    Secondly. I have been fortunate not to know anyone who has had to battle breast cancer, well personally that is. So for me right now in my life, the people that inspire me are the stories I hear from friends about their aunts, mothers, and friends battleing and surviving. I know that I need to do my part in volunteering and getting awareness out there, thank you for these reminders and the BIG questions!

  44. I’m inspired by both celebrities and the everyday people. I’m inspired when a celebrity shares their personal story because it brings more publicity to the cause. I’m inspired by those who have/had cancer. Three years ago I was training to walk a 1/2 marathon. On one Saturday morning our training group walked the same mile in the opposite direction of the Komen 3-day walk. It was a sight to see. A stream of pinkness in the hundreds of women walking together, laughing, high-fiving us as we went by. These women were on day two of their 60 mile journey. It was incredibly touching. Thanks for the post and the links.

  45. i’m back! been too long off of here! now after reading all of these thoughtful, inspiring post…i can;t believe i have stayed away for so long!

    back to it!

    lucky to not have been touched by cancer in my imediate family but myself and my kids will never know my husbands father because of it. makes me so sad.

    i think as tiresome as the celebs get…any extra awareness is great! if it makes someone go get checked out or take better care of themselves then it’s a good thing.

  47. I think ANYONE who is fighting cancer with a positive attitude is inspiring. I believe it is much tougher for everyday people because they typically don’t have the resources to help themselves and their families through this difficult time. However, I applaud the celebs for using their celebrity and resources to spread the word about this disease and to show that you can survive and prosper even in an industry that puts so much emphasis on appearance.
    I didn’t see the Oprah show with Christina Applegate, but I did read an article which said that in addition to the preventative mastectomy that she was going to have reconstructive surgery. (Don’t know if this article was accurate or not.) But, it was the first time that I thought, “Wow. Maybe reconstructive surgery could result in a normal appearance.” precisely because she is in an industry where looking good is so very important.

  48. In the case of Christina Applegate — she brought the issue of a double mastectomy to the table. What she did a a more radical approach that is being taken by a lot of people who have a strong history of breast cancer in their family. It is something that must be a very hard decision and talking about that — must be helpful to those women who are struggling with the same decision. Plus her age reminds us — be all must be aware of our own risks — at any age.

  49. I’m overwhelmed with the strength of ANYONE fighting the disease – but have to say that I’m most inspired by my sister-in-law who is a multi-year breast cancer survivor. Marching with “Anne’s Army” in the Komen Walks are significant emotional and empowering events.

  50. Id always assumed that *everyone* knew about the Avon Walks for Breast Cancer (which your comment, sue, made me think about and now that I type it the name makes me realize it kindasorta reads as though the walk is FOR breast cancer….but I digress)—–but this weekend I was chatting with a few friend who’d never heard of the event.

    CLICK HERE for more info.

    M.

  51. While no genetic member of my family has ever had cancer (but hello heart disease and Alzheimers..), I have had a couple close friends with it. Chose to become a friend (then became a best friend) with a women at the moment she received her level 4 diagnosis. Living through the last two years of her life was a workshop on living with cancer.

    Because I know that many cancers have lower survival rates, and higher rates or occurrance, I do not focus any of my cancer support on Breast cancer activities or “think pink” campaigns. I have found too many of the “think pinks” are marketing campaigns to drive product not to support (in a real sense) research and support.

    Some think it makes me an old stick in the mud. When they start having brown ribbons and speaking openly about colon cancer, maybe I’ll impressed.

  52. I’ve never been one to look up to celebrities, though I acknowledge their power and appreciate when it is used positively (Rock, Christina). For me it is my aunt, cousin, grandmother. Such courage and quiet determination.

  53. My inspiration, my mom. Besides being incredibly strong dealing with an autoimmune disorder for the past 25 years, maintaining her thoughfulness for others, also a breast cancer survivor. And my dad, for his support through ALL of this. I mean he could’ve skipped this train LONG ago… an amazing man!

    I do appreciate celebrities for their discussions, for those who have not experienced it first hand it really brings to light that it can happen to ANY one of us…


  54. Deb? bummer that youre right about this:
    I have found too many of the “think pinks” are marketing campaigns to drive product not to support (in a real sense) research and support.

    but you are.
    our own marianne called me on it quite lovingly when I linked to a pink product and she suggestion I DONATE THE MONEY instead.

    good point.

    ann? love your phrasing of the courage and quiet determination.
    again makes me wonder how I would be in that situation.

    ttfn300?

    LOVE THAT YOU GAVE A SHOUTOUT TO YOUR DAD.

    Here’s hoping more men who read Miz stop in and comment as well….Id love some male insights.

    M.

  56. All women inspire. I was in awe of Christina Applegate, but one of my dearest friends in New Hampshire just had the double mastectomy, and she is one of the bravest cool cats I know.

    They all inspire me. Cancer doesn’t seem to give a shit who it hits, does it. It’s an equal opportunity disease.

    Thank you for your face time. Loving your hat!
    ~Linda

  57. Guess everyday folks and their families – I remember the first time I ran the Susan G. Komen 5K. I was overwhelmed by the survivors and the families of those who didn’t survive and were there in memory. Most of them had signs with pictures and stories pinned to their backs while running. Have to admit I cried…

  58. My inspiration comes from really small and personal reminders which somehow find their way into my life. I don’t really attach them to a “celebrities” or “civilians”, I just attach them to the fact that they were meant to find me whenever and however they do.

    I’m currently inspired by my dear friend, David and the reflections and vunerabilities he’s so willing to share.

    I know for a fact I’m snuggling a little harder these days, hugging a little longer, smiling a little brighter as we just NEVER know who might need this energy.

    Thank you (as always) Miz for being the voice of presence inside my head. I bow (and wave).

  59. I am inspired by anyone who has battled cancer, whether they are famous or not. Anyone who speaks of their battle will put cancer on a more real level for all of us.

    It makes me thankful each and everyday for the health that I do have, and know that it could also have it happen to me. Knowing that there are steps that I can take to reduce my risk of any cancer helps me feel like I can control at least some things in my life.
    And that is the importance of spreading the word.

  60. Ms. V?

    I love this. it’s like a chant. a mantra.

    a chantra.

    Cancer doesn’t seem to give a shit who it hits

    Miz.

  61. My blog is pink! It’s always pink, though. I did add a “feel your boobies” badge thanks to Diana, though. And today I changed it to an even bigger badge. I have yet to post about it, though.

    Among my family and friends I sadly know more who did not survive breast cancer (or who battled breast cancer until it spread to other parts and overwhelmed them). I wish I knew more survivors. I am (like others have said) inspired by anyone, famous or not, who has suffered through any kind of cancer.

    I used to work with a cancer survivor who often said she didn’t like to use negative words like “fight” or “battle” regarding her cancer. That was a little odd to me, but I appreciated her positive focus.

  62. Great post! Since I don’t watch TV, I am so on the outskirts of celebrities, but I watched that episode and soaked up all the info.

    My mom went through surgery and chemo this last fall for ovarian cancer and since then I have learned SO MUCH. Knowledge really is power. That is when I really started to do the self exams and who knows when/if I would have found my lump at all if not for the awareness I gained from her experience. She has the BRCA1 gene and is going to undergo a preventative mastectomy sometime soon- it hasn’t been a year yet since her last surgery and she is just dreading the inevitable long recovery that she seems to need after any surgery.

    But despite all this, she is a bright light. She serves, she teaches, she is even more the strong woman that she is and was meant to be. THAT is inspiring to me.

  63. First off, fabulous post. Love the outfit. I think we def need both personal and celebrity inspiration! For me, my biggest inspiration is my Aunt (who I look very similar to) who was diagnosed with breast cancer in her early 40’s. She is a survivor and she is incredible!

  65. 5 years in September my MIL was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. This March was my 15 year survivorship mark with Malignant Melanoma. I have lost or stood next to a fighter nearly every year of my life in my or my husbands family. They all inspire me, I have come to realize that not only are others using me as an inspiration but I have used myself to inspire me to go onto greater things.

    I have participated and walked in 5 Avon Walk for Breast Cancer walks in the last 5 years. I have raised nearly $10,000 for that charity. I have brought several new people along the walk with me and now my dear aunt has pledged to raise thousands for me in memory of my Uncle who passed away from Leukemia 2 years ago. Almost two weeks ago I ran a half marathon in his honor in Sacramento with the Leukemia Lymphoma society.

    I could go on and on but let me tell you. What brings me back to the walks is all the wonderful people at the Avon Foundation. All the walkers, all the staff. Its amazing how 3000 people can feel like family. I am inspired every day by those around me and I hope that I continue to be an inspiration to them too.

  66. I am definitely inspired by the everyday people, but it’s also courageous for the Celebrities to put their story out there (since they are under the microscope, I’m sure it’s not pleasant to have that aspect of their life broadcast for all to see- in their face).

    My inspiration is my aunt, whom I was very close to (she lived with my family in high school, and after college she was my roommate for 4 years). Several years ago she had uterine cancer and licked it- or so we thought. Unfortunately it came back, and she battled through a roller-coaster of good days and bad days; surgeries, radiation and chemo. It spread to her lungs and her bladder, and she passed away in 2004.

    For a long time I was bitter. It was around the time that the Livestrong yellow bracelets were popular, and every time I saw someone wearing one, it would stir up that emotion, because to me it represented survival- a blessing my aunt did not have. Plus, it seemed like everyone was just wearing one because it was the cool thing to do (almost making light of such a horrible disease).

    I was sad that she couldn’t be at my wedding (364 days after her death), but a lesson I learned was to try to live the healthiest life I can, one without guilt and regrets. I’ve learned that it’s good to have the “yellow bracelets”, the “pink stuff”, and other things that spread awareness, because otherwise we might still be too scared to talk about it, and certainly wouldn’t have raised as much money for research. I love hearing the inspirational stories of people who are going through, or have conquered, tough challenges, because it helps me to put things in perspective, and makes me appreciate what I have.

    Today I am grateful for my health, and for the 26 years I was blessed to have my aunt in my life!

  67. So many inspiring stories here – inspiration enough in itself.

    I have one very good friend who has fought back from cancer, and one who lost the fight, and I’m inspired by both of them every day.

    I think celebrities like Kylie Minogue have done a great job of reinforcing the message that cancer is NOT always a death sentence – it was always seen to be in the past. That it is something which can be fought, and lived through.

    TA x

  68. I would say both inspire me but I have to agree that folks I know and the ones down the street battling it, do the most.
    I lost my Father-in-law to cancer, never got to meet him. I met his sister, my husbands aunt, great lady; she died of breast cancer. Just this past month my sted-dads sister she died too of breast cancer; met her once and another great lady. My Mom, oh my Mom, she has tumors in her brain. She’s not seeking treatment. I love my mom…she inspires me not because I am worried about her but she is a fighter too on so many fronts. An older lady friend here in town I am close to has been fighting cancer for so many years, knock on wood – still living. My mother in law who has been battling colon cancer and is now in remission. Her sister who has mouth and throat cancer who is going back in for treatment this month. Both great ladies too. This list could go on and on I know so many and have come across so many who have fought and are winning and those who lost.

    I’m sobbing. I don’t want it to be my husband next. I try and urge to him to quit his ways and educate him on his high risk factors. May God show him mercy and may he have a light turned that cause him to quit.

  69. twix? Hugs. Many.

    *many*

    The list can go on & on and can be, at times, more than it feels we can bear.

    All I can urge you to do is lead by example for your husband.

    Live your life in the healthiest & most positive fashion you can (I’m a big believer that negative mindsets can be as poisonous as, say, smoking) and let him see you strut your stuff.

    You never know when he’s watching…or when he may start mimicking.

    M.

  70. Other cancers have been in my family, but not breast cancer. My aunt is a survivor of uterine cancer. She is a huge inspiration for me and one of the reasons I ran the Race for Life 5K in June. Considering how large my family is and the few people who have had cancer so far, I know it will pop up again with someone now or down the road. Maybe me. Depressing and scary thought, but something that spurs me to make the most of the time I have with my family and to try to make sure we all live as healthily as possible.

  71. I am inspired by my brother. He was inspired by Lance Armstrong’s book.

    I’m afraid that’s all I can really say. It’s such a pervasive painful . . . and I need to work.

  72. first of all, have to say missed you while the family was down with the flu…….love the pink outfit 🙂

    I am equally inspired by our everyday heroes and the celebrities. I saw Oprah and was deeply touched by the stories. I think that Christina coming out and talking so candidly is a wake up call for a lot of us who convince ourself that this could never happen to us.

  73. Thanks for your comments. Full running post to be completed today or tomorrow. I have to watch your video from work tomorrow as I cannot figure out how to work BFs speakers. Hope you had a great weekend.

  74. Mizfit, thanks so much for doing this post and for linking to me.

    I do believe that celebrities help to get the message out and I admire anyone that is willing to tell their story for the world to see. My mom and some friends were my inspiration to buck up and not complain too much when I was going through my treatments.

    I fully agree with Deb as well. Even having gone through Breast Cancer – I shy away from purchasing “pink” products. I would rather support a runner or walker or maybe do the walk myself one day. And I would wear a brown ribbon too!

  75. My paternal grandmother has battled breast cancer twice and, thank goodness, is doing extraordinarily well. She lost my grandfather to Alzheimer’s over twenty years ago and at the age of 88 she lives in small apartment by herself (she has someone come in in the mornings to clean and cook), drives herself everywhere, goes to the movies and restaurants with her friends, and so on. She is truly my inspiration.

  76. I know, Marelisa, I look at the STRONG FEISTY AMAZING women I know who are 85+ and wonder if we (the royal) havent grown soft?

    will we be as tenacious and filled with life and gratitude at that age when we get there?

    I hope so…

    your grandmother sounds so like mine. she passed at 101 but was living alone until she was 95.

    M.

  77. I have, as many others have, been affected by cancer. I haven’t had cancer, but I did lose my grandmother to breast cancer. I was only five at the time, but I still have memories of how it affected her and those whom she loved and was surrounded by. It is a very scary disease that many of us have been affected by.
    I have been trying to bring more awareness to those around me, and those that read my blog, through random bits of information added into my regular posts this month. This past weekend I was able to participate in a 25 mile ride to bring more awareness and raise money. Please, feel free to check out my post by clicking the link below.
    Trek Breast Cancer Awareness Ride

    Thanks,
    Stacy

  78. THANKS FOR THE LINK, Teacherwoman.

    CLICK HERE to see how Christina Applegate’s tv show (I dont watch it—-anyone?) addressed her breast cancer and infused it with humor.

    M.

  79. My first experience with cancer was my husband’s. He found out he had colon cancer at age 49 and died at age 50. Then I got uterine cancer a few years later. I don’t know if I am cured. But as my friend Kathy says, the best revenge against cancer is to live your life and that’s what I’m doing.

  80. hey, thanks for your comment! I don’t really have any personal experience with anyone who has had cancer. i’d say lance armstrong is pretty damn inspiring though.

  81. My grandma and mom both had pieces of their breasts removed at some point before I was born. The cancer was more extensive in my grandma, and she never got reconstructive surgery, so I remember walking in on her one day when she was putting on her “special bra.” That was my first introduction to breast cancer, I think. But they’re both religious about keeping their mammograms up to date now (and their other pain in the keester check-ups), so I’ve always had a good influence/”inspiration” (if you will) in them on that front.

    I appreciate what the celebrities (Applegate, Armstrong, etc.) have done to make people more aware of cancer. I think it’s a better use of their time than political rants, for example. I mean, what would happen if Britney Spears appeared in a Breast Cancer Awareness commercial? Every girl 12 and up would get them annually for the rest of their lives.

    Hey, Britney, that ain’t a bad idea. Lol.

  82. My main inspiration is through a close family member who lost her battle with cancer a few years ago. I am also inspired by those who are fighting cancer & those who have won the battle won or lost it. Thank you for bring up a subject we don’t think about as much as we should.

  83. ok. in a post that wouldnt mind a little levity this:

    I mean, what would happen if Britney Spears appeared in a Breast Cancer Awareness commercial? Every girl 12 and up would get them annually for the rest of their lives.

    Hey, Britney, that ain’t a bad idea. Lol.

    a great idea as they *certainly* are not poster children for practicing birth control (hello, Jamie Lynn? are you really pregnant again?!)

    M.

  85. I think if our leaders really want to find a cure they could. We need massive funding and dedication…

    My inspiration comes from regular people who grind it out day in and day out.

  86. I am inspired by the everyday women who keep a positive attitude in the face the such a scary disease, but who stay strong for their family and friends and community. I am also inspired by people like you who try to keep these important issues at the forefront, so we never forget to care about others and to live our own lives to the fullest every day. Thanks, Mizfit.

  87. True. Cancer does not discriminate and can hit anyone at any time. Personally, I am more touched by the stories of every day people who share their healing journey with us because my father had colon cancer, and after going through that with him, I got more first hand experience including what people have to go through dealing with the insurance companies and hospitals. It can be a nightmare. Because celebs have money they have the means to get the best doctors and best treatment which most us would never have access to.

    I give kudos to the celebs who come out about their health experiences because it does bring awareness and attention. After Christina visited Oprah, I have no doubt a whole slew of women went and made doctor appts. Examples like Christina is where I appreciate a famous person using their celeb for good.

  88. Since my family is affected in a sort of parallel way, I will add that having celebrities in the lime light about autism has made a huge (huge) impact on the amount of awareness and research, etc. concerning finding answers for our kids/families. I don’t agree with everything that I see and I get frustrated that they can have one more photo shoot this week to pay for this year’s treatments while my own family struggles, but in the end, it is the attention that they receive that brings in funding and moves research/treatments forward. It’s a good thing. It reminds us, too, that we are really all the same and there is hope even in despair.

  90. I’m inspired by both those I know, and those who are famous – for different reasons. For those I know, I’m inspired because I know them personally – and feel a deep connection with these people. And that really adds to what I feel when they are fighting this monster. I’m also inspired by famous people who battle cancer also – because it makes them seem more real – and a side of vulnerability shows through. And that reminds me that we are all the same – we’re all living a human life here on earth.

  91. I agree lance and yet hadnt phrased it as such.

    the vulnerability.

    the humanizing.

    the fact that we are all NOT SO DIFFERENT huh?

    M.

  92. Wonderful question.

    My mother is a breast cancer survivor, she had a lump removed, and some local radiation and it has not returned, thankfully. But lately, my aunt is the one battling this terrible disease. She found out earlier this year that she had breast cancer and had a mastectomy. She has undergone months of chemo and now is onto the radiation — a massive undertaking this is, daily treatments that leave her very weak and very sick; her fingernails are even falling out. It is that terrible. But she is strong and she is hopeful and we all pray that she remains cancer-free. And honestly, I am inspired by everyone’s fight, whether it’s a family member or a celebrity. Because we are all human and the fight is long and hard, and everyone’s story is a difficult one. One where each day is a battle but it’s a battle for the greater purpose that is life. And I find anyone who’s fighting the fight an inspiration, not only for this amount of strength they find inside themselves, but for their courage for sharing it, if they choose to, so others know they’re not alone. That’s the short answer.

    That being said, since cancer of all types runs in my family, including breast cancer, my first mastectomy was when I was 25 and the nurses laughed at me. Actually laughed. And said I was too young. In my opinion, there is never “too young” to protect yourself against breast cancer. Breast cancer has no age. Yes, please get checked. Early and often, everyone.

  96. Too many women in my family with BC to mention… unfortunatly. I’ve walked the 3 day 60 miles with Avon a few years back and plan to do it again, mevertheless, here is to fighting the good fight for a great cause! – ohh and LOVE your floors!!

  97. I am definitely more inspired by the everyday person who has been affected by cancer. I have lost 4 people in my life to the evil disease and, for me, they are the remarkable ones!!!

    I don’t knock Lance or Christina but I don’t feel that their struggles are as tough as everyday people. For one, because of their professions, they have access to the best of the best (as far as treatment and facilities).

    I do appreciate them for coming forth with their struggles but I don’t think anyone with a disposable income has it as hard as us “regular” people.

    Bottom line: Cancer sucks and anyone who has it (celebrity or not) is brave, remarkable, and they inspire me to live each day to the fullest!!!

    Thanks for the great post, mz fit.

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