It's all over TV, Internet, newspapers and even on many billboards in the United States. It's something you probably encounter almost every day and yet you're not aware of it. How is it possible that something so small can affect so many people and save so many lives? This powerful thing I'm talking about is none other than the famous pink ribbon that represents breast cancer. This pink ribbon symbolizes awareness of the disease, the survivors still among us, those who have lost their battle and the brave souls currently fighting for their lives. It also inspired many people to have faith, hope and courage, even in the darkest hours. Did you know that every 2 minutes, a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer? More than a million women are diagnosed with this terrible disease each year. Breast cancer is currently the second leading cause of cancer death among women behind lung cancer. Given these facts, isn't it time to find a cure? To begin with, it started out as a normal routine day for me. I was in the shower and decided to do a breast self-exam. I'm not even sure what initiated this idea. Cancer wasn't something I worried about on a daily basis. In fact, I wasn’t a frequent or even monthly self-checker. Thirty-four was just too young to have cancer, or so I thought. As I was doing the exam, the unthinkable happened and it stopped me dead in my tracks. NO! This is not possible! Is this possible? I felt a particular bump in my armpits. All of a sudden my knees went weak and I felt a panic attack coming on. This couldn't happen to me. Why me? I'm not ready to die! These were the frightening thoughts that ran through my mind. After several minutes of crying and grief... middle of paper ...compassion, love and support. This breast cancer support group, along with the support of my loving family and, most importantly, the strength God has given me to fight a good fight, is why I am here today. To conclude, I am passionate about sharing the focus on ALL women. do monthly breast self-checks as well as an annual breast mammogram. These examinations and tests are mandatory to detect breast cancer at an early stage. Remember, age is just a number. Cancer can and does affect young people! This emotional journey was a shocking wake-up call for me and the experience affected everyone in my family in one way or another. I am proud to say that I am a 2.5 year breast cancer survivor! I want everyone struggling with this disease to know that when in doubt, turn to that famous pink ribbon as a symbol of faith, hope and courage, as you move forward..