2. CHANGE YOUR DIET
Again, I took pride in how I took care of myself. After cancer, I have worked to eliminate and/or significantly reduce processed foods and sugar. I eat almost exclusively organic fruits and vegetables as well as grass/pasture fed meats/eggs/dairy. Some of these changes were expensive but worth it. I pay close attention to gut health as it impacts digestive, physical, mental health and well-being. I take supplements that meet deficiencies or, in my case, address my vulnerabilities having had cancer and endured cancer treatment. Supplements that are NO-BRAINERS given COVID are: Vitamins C, D3, Zinc, B-12.
3. USE CLEAN PRODUCTS
I moved to use only clean personal and cleaning products. Everything from toothpaste to aluminum free deodorant to shampoo/conditioner, laundry, dishwashing and house cleaners, that are minus carcinogens and hormone disrupters (which is huge with breast cancer as many are hormone-driven). A simple Google search can help you identify both dangerous ingredients and affordable options for both personal and household items.
4. PRIORITIZE SELF CARE
Finally, I stopped feeling guilty for spending the time and money on taking care of myself. Stress is toxic, and our jobs, while incredibly enjoyable, are highly stressful. Throw in a husband, three busy kids, etc., and it can be a recipe for chronic stress where your body does not have the opportunity to recover or regenerate each day. I have no doubt that stress played a huge role in my cancer diagnosis. Since then, I have made acupuncture, chiropractic work and massages a priority every month. I continue to work out hard, as sweating almost every day is a priority, but as I near 50, my body and mind need care more than ever. I utilize essential oils and salt baths for relaxation and recovery as well as CBD products to help sleep.
I realize that some of these changes can be expensive. But, trust me, in the age of local CSA’s, Costco, Trader Joes, Aldi, Target, Wal-Mart, Amazon, Massage Envy, etc., this kind of food, personal products and body care are cost effective and more readily available than ever.
In closing, a reminder that early detection is EVERYTHING. It doesn’t matter how old you are or whether or not you have had family history. You are not immune. Educate yourself, eat well, use clean products, take good care of your mind, body and spirit. Finally, do your monthly breast exams, go see a doctor if there are any changes and never miss your mammograms … even during COVID!
EDITOR’S NOTE: October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual campaign to increase awareness of the disease. We provide the links below for those who are interested in learning more about breast cancer or joining the fight against breast cancer.
NATIONAL CONSORTIUM OF BREAST CANCERS — Breast Cancer Resources
WE FIGHT LIKE GIRLS (Mikaela Rix’s fundraiser) — 100% of donations go to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
NATIONAL BREAST CANCER FOUNDATION — Programs, resources and support