Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and there is much to report on many fronts.

At the moment, I'm traveling in Europe, having delayed my 50th birthday celebration until now. My one year anniversary of diagnosis will be on October 23, and I'm happy to say that, all in all, I feel well. My old self is gradually returning.

On the fight against breast cancer, a couple of things you should know. Results of a recently released study showed that women with early-stage breast cancers responded equally well to lower overall doses of radiation. My radiation therapy was administered in 35 separate doses, but doctors are finding they can reduce the number of treatments markedly. So if you, or someone you know, is facing radiation for breast cancer, please ask about this study.

Second, Dr. Susan Love has launched a new effort to tap into women who are willing to participate in studies and clinical trials. Sponsored by Avon, Dr. Love's new program is called the Army of Women. Her goal is to register one million women, so that researchers can have better access to women of all ages, races, and health histories. If you have not already done so, I urge you to go this link, learn more about her effort, and sign up. http://www.dslrf.org/army/

Finally, I have agreed to participate in the Komen Walk next summer with my friend, Diana, who completed the Chicago event this year. I'm saying this in print here to prod myself a little further toward actually acting on this pledge. A three-day walk is an enormous undertaking, but it's worth the effort. Maybe you should consider walking, too.