It’s October and in October we wear pink! And we make pink projects. And we talk about breast cancer. Talking about it and reminding women to do self-checks and get mammograms saves lives.
I was diagnosed with breast cancer when I was 34 years old. My youngest child was 18 months old at the time. I went through six months of chemo, lost all my hair, had a double mastectomy, homeschooled my two school-aged kiddos, and totally rocked my bald head with a baby on my hip. I never gave up but it was seriously the hardest thing I’ve ever done. The bright side of going through all of that is that I don’t have to wonder if I am strong. I know I am.
Now I am almost eleven years cancer-free. Woot woot! Those days are behind me but now my focus is on sharing my story and letting women know that if it hadn’t been for a breast self-exam, I wouldn’t have found the lump as early as I did, and my outcome would have been very different.
So, with all of that said, I celebrate in October! I love seeing all the pink and I love to incorporate pink into my sewing and quilting projects too. Right now I’m loving this pink Lucky Penny Wallet Kit from Sallie Tomato. This breast cancer awareness project is for beginners and is so darn cute. Click here for the kit.
The wonderful things about these pink projects is that you can make one for yourself or make one for someone that you may know who is fighting cancer or going through a tough time. I’m in love this this darling Quilt As You Go Jewel Heart Quilt pattern pictured below. It’s perfect for fat quarters and I can envision it all in pink hearts – perfect for someone fighting breast cancer – or any cancer for that matter.
No matter what you choose to sew this month, whether it’s pink or not pink, I hope you find joy in the project! Don’t forget to do those breast self-exams, encourage the women around you to do the same, and get your mammograms. It may save your life. It did mine.
Happy sewing!
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What an inspiring story. Thank you for sharing. I too found the strength I didn’t realize I had. A whole world of support and friendship opened to me. One day I became aware of the people that had always been there, were “really there”. I was diagnosed last October with stage 4 endometrial cancer. I know every day I can beat this!
I sewed my way thru chemo, making quilts and clothes.
I’m a big fan of your newsletter. Thank you! Bless you!
Christie-I am wishing you health and success at beating this! Keep those positive thoughts coming!