Cancer runs in my family. Lots of cancer. Breast, uterine, colon, lung and bladder. When my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 57, I became understandably concerned because given my family history, my personal risk for breast cancer is greater than average. At that time, I was 28 years old, residing in another state with my husband- who served in the Navy- and I was caring for our two young children. As both a nurse and her only daughter, it was challenging to be separated from my mother during her diagnosis.
When I was in my 20’s, it was not common practice to have a screening mammogram because of family history. I was fortunate enough to have a primary care physician that advocated for me with my insurance company and have had an annual screening mammogram for over 30 years. It was a long insurance battle that I dealt with for years.
In 2002, I was approached by a dear friend, asking me if I were interested in joining a new Mardi Gras Krewe in my community. A krewe that supported sisterhood, the spirit of Mardi Gras, but which also had a philanthropic purpose to raise funds and awareness for breast cancer. It was an organization I knew I needed to join. It would give me the opportunity to advocate for others like my physician had advocated for me. I aimed to help others gain the same peace of mind I was afforded by having early screening mammograms due to my family history. Known for our signature pink wigs, tiaras, and pink and black attire, The Krewe du YaYas has become an important aspect of my life. We have consistently demonstrated commitment to our mission, which is to inspire hope and enhance life for those affected by breast cancer through early detection, advocacy, education and support services.
The Keeping Abreast Foundation provides assistance to those who are uninsured or underinsured. Our foundation now offers a comprehensive breast health services program that includes screening and diagnostic mammograms, ultrasounds, breast MRI’s, needle-guided biopsies, and permanent areola and eyebrow tattoos. Additionally, our grant program helps cover unique expenses that are not covered by traditional insurance plans.
Several years ago, I attended an event organized by The American Cancer Society where I received a gift from Fighting Pretty—a clear bag containing various thoughtful items, including a pen designed to resemble lipstick and a pink lipstick. Shortly afterward, I contacted the Fighting Pretty team to inquire about providing similar gifts for our survivors, and since then, we have consistently benefited from Fighting Pretty's generous contributions. These items are amongst the most popular selections in our survivor swag bags.
I became a member of Fighting Pretty’s “Fight Club” to give back and support an organization that has consistently assisted The Keeping Abreast Foundation and “I Pink I Can Run” through their Strength and Beauty kits. These kits are more than just swag to our survivors and our participants eagerly anticipate receiving them each year. They have become a very important part of our survivor love, and we are truly grateful for their support.
Jacqui O'Connell has been a Fight Club Member supporting women battling cancer and a Strength and Beauty Partner for over a year! If you want to support women battling cancer become a Fight Club member at $20 a month or $200 per year and join the movement to make an ongoing impact!
Join Today: https://www.fightingpretty.org/fightclub