The Red Bikini Lady....

Body for Life Champion and Liftime Achievement Award Winner, Michelle Lee. "page-a-day" memoir of the steps I took during a journey to my first Body Building and Figure Competition and beyond. (c)2008 all rights reserved by blog author

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Location: Minnesota, United States

I'm at an age when many women believe their best years are behind them. I hope to convince my "Sisters" that many more of those "best years" are waiting to be lived! I'm living proof it is never to late to live them. Not to long ago I weighed nearly 200 pounds and was being treated for a long list of obesity related medical problems. Thankfully there came a point in my life when I decided to keep my self promises. When I did...my life opened to a world of possibilities.

Wednesday, May 11, 2005

Once we get our BFL now what?

We only get one body for life. It is up to us to give it what it needs to thrive and to make sure it stays healthy! Today's message is for both women and men.
First...I'd like to have a word about breast cancer. One out of nine women will develop it. There are very successful treatments available. The catch is...we have to catch it in its early stages.
Mammograms and self breast exams are our best defense.

Today...I will go in for my annual mammogram. It's something I began as a gift to myself when I turned forty. For most of us that's the time for a baseline test. Women with a family history of breast cancer require an earlier baseline. If you are wondering when you should begin yours...please talk with your Doctor.

I have to admit the first test was frightening. I had heard that it could be painful. It really wasn't. And after that first test I went in dutifully for the next 12 years for another one. Last year...The test came back positive. But, I was extremely lucky. A biopsy removed all suspecious cells and a six month follow up brought good news.

Today I go in for my annual mammogram. I am confident that what ever the results... I will be just fine. That's the beauty of early detection.

Today I ask each of my BFL sisters to consider whether its time to get your baseline or annual test. If it is time...schedule one. A great resource is the American Cancer Society website.
I also ask my BFL brothers to consider discussing this test with their mom, sister, wife or girlfriend...to see if its time for them to schedule their test. If they are afraid...volunteer to take them and if necessary hold their hand in the waiting room. It could be one of the best "tens" you'll ever hit! Also---consider conducting your own self exam. Yes, while rare...men too can get breast cancer.

Early detection is our best line of defense when it comes to this disease that claims to many lives.
Have a great BFL day....and remember you only have one BFL. Take care of it!

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