Though this is the month of Breast Cancer Awareness, you really do need to be aware every single month. In my column last week — and I cannot stress it enough — I wrote that breast cancer is the most preventable life-threatening disease. That’s one loaded term, isn’t it? “Preventable” and “life-threatening” in one breath! I have to admit that it sends shivers down my spine. I have known some amazing women who have been (and some still are) dealing with breast cancer. In their eyes, I see strength, resilience and a strong sense of being. And I salute these friends, mothers, daughters and sisters who have the courage to live a happy life.
I’ve known Irina as incredibly energetic, vibrant and positive, and someone who shows no signs of slowing down or giving up, despite being diagnosed with breast cancer. Irina owns a PR company and ironically (or not!), she pioneered the Estee Lauder Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign in the Middle East in the late 90’s. Little did she know that this project would not only educate thousands, but also save her own life. A toxic feeling in her body led her to further investigations, thankfully catching the cancer at an early stage. Today, Irina lives a consciously healthy life, healthy eating working out, exercising, running a marathon and enjoying every bit of it.
Almas Menon is someone I have known for almost 15 years. If you see Almas’s smile, you — like me — can forget the intense treatments she has been going through, with cancer knocking on her door three times. Yet, when I ask her what her message is for people with breast cancer, she sums it in one word, “Live”. “The treatment can only do so much. The rest is up to you. Don’t spend your time ‘fighting’ cancer, let your treatment do that. Spend your time fulfilling your passion and the things you love” she said. “I have a simple philosophy. The amount I will live on this earth has already been destined. But how I live it is my choice. I can either live in fear and negativity or not. I choose not” and she flashes that smile again.
Umaima Tinwala, along with her father, sister and 9-year old daughter, suffered the loss of her mother to breast cancer only three years ago. Last year, Tinwala — a single mother – noticed a lump in her breast. Knowing the feeling all too well, she went for a check-up and was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer. Tinwala educated her little daughter about everything — right from surgery scars to hair loss, removing any fears of the unknown or unexplained.
The common thread between these wonderful souls and the many more who face the realities of breast cancer, is their strong will to live a life of happiness and love. They have chosen not to buckle under fear and defeat, but to hold their head up high and walk tall. I bow my head and salute you, my friends, for showing me the true meaning of life.
