I’m Not a Breast Cancer Survivor, I’m a Breast Cancer Champion #breastcancer

I participated in the Boise Race for The Cure event here in Boise this past Saturday. My office peeps wanted to honor my 22+ years being cancer free. I am so grateful that I work with such wonderful human beings that acknowledge my breast cancer experience. #ThankYou

I have said this in the past: my breast cancer diagnosis did not intimidate me, but instead, it inspired me to become an advocate. 21 years ago, I became involved in the Idaho Breast Cancer Coalition, which at the time was an “arm” of the National Breast Cancer Coalition. I lobbied on Capitol Hill for three years for breast cancer research dollars. I organized and lead a local event for Expedition Inspiration Fund, whose sole mission is to raise funds for breast cancer research.

Suffice to say, I am passionate about women’s issues. However, I must state, I am passionate about breast cancer research efforts. That is my main focus. Research. No pink fluff.

Let’s get to the point of this post: I am not a ‘survivor’. I am a champion for women.

For breast cancer research. But my passion for women’s issues does not stop there.

I am a champion for health care choices for women that are not restricted by men, men who DO NOT understand what women face day to day. I am a champion for public policy changes for paid maternity leave, at least 60-90 days. I am a champion for equal pay for women in all scopes of the business world. I am a champion for affordable child care. I am a champion for cancer research dollars. I am a champion for options for single mothers to find a way out of dependence on assistance, which for me is also affordable higher learning opportunities. I am a champion for immigration policies that keep families together and find a path towards coexistence.

Why in the hell is this so difficult in America these days?

#breastcancerresearch @breastcancerEI #womensissues #healthcarerights #DACA #paidmaternityleave #equalpay #AmericaDeservesBetter

Resources:

Expedition Inspiration Fund for Breast Cancer Research
http://www.expeditioninspiration.org/

American Cancer Society
https://www.cancer.org/about-us/local/idaho.html
you can find your local society, add your city after American Cancer Society

Or, Google the disease you are passionate about. Do your due diligence. Make sure the non-profit you discover makes their donations go towards the research or services you feel are important to you.

Do not delay!