October is breast cancer awareness month and so many women forego a yearly mammogram due to lack of insurance or the ability to pay. The reality is that cancer doesn't just happen to those who can afford it and the earlier you catch it the better your chances of survival.

My best friend was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer in August last year. It was a long hard battle, but she muddled through it for her family. She was only 32 years old so had it not been for feeling the lump she may not be here today. Her cancer was agressive so she needed to do the full range of treatment, chemo, double mastectomy, and radiation. She is now in remission. She just had her reconstructive surgery done last week. 

Self breast exams are easy to forget, but shouldn't be. The National Breast Cancer Foundation suggests setting up a monthly reminder on your phone for your self exam.

Women over 40 should have a yearly mammogram. There are programs in place for women who have no insurance or are unable to cover the costs themselves. Aspirus Womens health does screenings throughout the year you can check their website to see when and where you can find them. There are also programs set up for finanical assistance to those who need it through Marshfield Clinic. 

During Breast Cancer Awarenss Month pick a day and get your whole office to wear pink then post a picture of your staff sporting pink on our Bryan and Nikki facebook page or you can email it to us at bryanandnikki@wdez.com and we'll post it for you.