First October Giveaway!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, which holds a very special place in my heart.

My mom, Sofia, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1977 when she was 45 and I was 11. Although I was so young, I can recall the fear on my mom's face and the tears that accompanied the diagnosis. She proceeded to have a full mastectomy, followed by chemo and radiation. She would continue to go for check ups every 3 months, 6 months and eventually yearly. The doctors told her that the magic "5 year" mark would be when they would list her as "cancer free". Never did she make it to the 5 year. She was short a couple of months. Her second breast would be removed and the same routine would continue only this time her chemo was stronger. She was sick...very sick but she was strong and fought her way back.

The dreaded "5 year" mark would be in arms reach when the cancer metastasized to other parts of her body. Same routine...same outcome. After 20 years, I lost my best friend. The most wonderful, caring, gentle woman. We got 20 years with her and for that I was grateful. She was able to see her children marry and have grandchildren but she should still be here so see the grandchild that only knows her by the picture on my wall and point and say "that's my Yia Yia and I love her"

Cancer is not prejudiced. It doesn't care how old or how young you are, how rich or poor, what color your skin is, or whether you are male female.

I will be giving away a bracelet each week this month, and this is the first! All you have to do to enter is comment on this post between now and next Friday (10/8) at midnight. One comment per person, please. Winner will be chosen Saturday (10/9).