Within the past five years, I’ve lost four loved ones from breast cancer. Their ages were from 27 years old to 88 years young. As October brings Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I’m thinking about them—and about what it really means to take care of ourselves.

We talk about slowing down, putting on our favorite music, and making time to feel good. Those moments matter. So do the checkups, the follow-up calls, and the appointments we keep moving to the bottom of our lists.

Knowing how your breasts normally look and feel can help you notice changes. If something is new or unusual, contact your healthcare provider rather than waiting for your next screening. Stay current with mammograms based on your age and personal risk.

And ask about your family’s health history—on both sides. Sharing that information with your provider can help guide screenings and whether genetic counseling might be useful.

Taking care of yourself cannot guarantee you won’t get sick. But you deserve the chance to ask questions, understand your risks, and get support.

This month, I’m honoring the people I miss with a reminder to all of us: make room for your health.

Sometimes your self-care moment is a favorite song and a quiet evening. Sometimes it’s making the appointment—and asking someone you trust to go with you.

With love,
Setoria 🤎