My Story
In high school my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer. Years later my Dad's mother also had a lumpectomy done. I was daughter who, with no previous histories of breast cancer, now had it on both sides of my family.
Growing up as a woman in this world was never educated on this subject. I have taken it upon myself to do what I can to ensure I an educated, and know what to do to keep myself, and now my own daughter healthy. I want others to know what they can do and be knowledgeable as women! I want others to know my story and not be fearful to ask questions.
In 2019 before COVID put a jolt in our day to day lives I took it upon myself to do something for awareness of breast cancer. I had not ran since high school and decided that I would do the CIBC Run for the Cure 5K. I was nervous but thought this is something I can do to spread awareness and run for my loved ones! The entry amount to run was $150.00. To be able to run for free I had to at least raise this amount - I decided to raise $300.00 as a modest first time runner goal. I quickly realized that I had a great group of friends and community members in Tobermory On as I finished in the top 10 fundraisers out of the Collingwood Location. I raise a total of $3,600.00 - far past my goal! It was hard but I did it with my daughter and mom cheering by my side!
Later on I would then realize how this would impact my life even further. I found a lump on my right breast. The picture beside was taken on March 14th, 2022. I had a lumpectomy. I was very fortunate for it to be non cancerous, but with the complexity of the tissue and my families history it was best for it be be removed. It took being brave to be able to share this with the world but my biggest thought was, what if this is happening to other women in the world that have never been told about this? I need to do something. I need to share my story. The only reason I found this lump was due to self checks that my doctors taught me how to do after my mom was diagnosed. Do they teach women without history how to do this? I don't know and that's unsettling. I want women to be able to be taught knowledge and to think that this might not happen to them. I want to be someone that can be there for them and not be afraid to ask questions. Women need to support other women.
Leah Swanton
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