Games and merchandise = Support???

A friend of mine posted about the newest game on FB of putting your location and time you've been there as your status in support of breast cancer... She was disgusted and here's my take on it too! (Hint: If you read my rant on FB, skip to the bottom of this post!)

I've been in Hell for 28 months or so! Breast cancer is NOT a game. I think a lot of the "awareness" is just a covert way to talk about boobs without taboo. If there are people out there who are unaware of breast cancer must be hiding under rocks or have rocks for brains! I understand being surprised that it hits young, while pregnant, or even men; but, really??? How can you NOT already be aware of the cancer that is breast cancer??? Plus this type of awareness does NOTHING for those dealing with a breast cancer diagnosis. Buying pink appliances, shoes, bracelets, etc seldom actually does NOTHING for those of us unfortunate enough to suffer from this disease.

To me, all the pink merchandise, games, plays on words, etc trivialize our journeys. People that actually want to affect those in the trenches would be best served by offering donations to individuals, providing services (like child-care, house-cleaning, etc), or organizing similar things. Even a simple email, text, or wall post can help when you're in the throes of despair after your diagnosis, at your continued infirmity, or as a caretaker.

Life for someone diagnosed with cancer (any type) will NEVER be the same! Seemingly easy tasks can be insurmountable even if to an outside eye, the person 'looks' healthy. Appearances ARE deceiving. I think that's most true in survivors because we've learned to bear our diagnosis and appear normal and strong to everyone else.

Some may be comforted by the thought of people rallying behind a game or colored merchandise. However, I (& most of the survivors I know) are far too cynical and knowledgable about the inadequacy of these efforts. Anyone willing to do a little research will find that in most cases pink merchandise and awareness games, messages, or programs typically only pay the wages of those responsible for the organization. Be a true supporter and find someone locally struggling with a diagnosis to throw your money, time, prayers, and effort behind their struggle!

Sorry, I'll get off my soap-box now. <3 you!! I know many of you have done all of the above for me. I cannot thank you enough! It's impossible to imagine where I'd be without the tremendous outpouring of support I've been privy to. I appreciate every gesture of support that is directed at me -- even the ones I rail against. I appreciate those efforts too because every good wish, thought, memory, and prayer adds up to the Guy Upstairs! He knows what's in your heart as you do what you do. I just know that without Him and people like you I'd be nothing!!!