Celebrating Strong Women: A Mother’s Day Note from Komen CSNJ Executive Director Suzanne Corson
As I settle into my 40’s, I find the topic of breast health coming up more and more with my friends. Who’s had a mammogram, who’s talked to their doctor, who feels healthy? And who has had discussions with their family about health history?
I am so lucky to have an incredible group of friends, some of whom have been my best friends since childhood. I always tell them about the importance of breast self-awareness and knowing your family history. We’ve been through so much together — including a journey with breast cancer.
I was raised by strong, supportive women who have helped make me into the person I am today. There is my own mother, my grandmother who is about to turn 93 and my mother-in-law, all who have each been amazing role models for me as I raise two young boys, manage a household and serve as Executive Director of Komen CSNJ.
Each year, I feel so lucky to celebrate another Mother’s Day with all of these women. Mother’s Day is an opportunity to share with all the moms and women in your life what they mean to you, how they have helped you grow and empowered you to be your best self.
It is also a great opportunity to discuss family health history with your loved ones. Share how important this information can be with all the moms in your life, so they can have these conversations within their own family.
Why is it so important to know your family health history? Because you can’t change your genes. But you can take control of your health. Knowing your family health history can help you reduce your risk of developing health problems, including breast cancer.
Learn about your breast cancer risk from family members — moms, dads, grandmothers, aunts. Use Susan G. Komen’s Family Health History tool to record and organize your family health history, privately and securely, and take this information for discussions with your health care provider. Share your history with younger generations of your family.
So this Sunday, while you’re enjoying brunch, taking a stroll, shopping, having family dinner, however you celebrate this special day — encourage the women in your life to be an advocate for their own breast health and well-being. Ask your family about health history. All of it. Write it down. Talk to your doctor. You will be glad that you did.
To all of the moms, grandmothers, aunts, daughters and friends out there who have been an integral part of furthering our vision of a world without breast cancer: we stand with you, we celebrate you, we honor you.
Happy Mother’s Day!
PS — Want to make Mother’s Day extra special for your family? Sign up for Komen CSNJ’s MORE THAN PINK Walk in honor of the woman you love most — only $15 now through Mother’s Day!
