As the mom of a nine year-old boy, this is a question I find myself asking every morning before school and every evening before bed.
The question I should be asking all my sisters, colleagues and girlfriends is, “Did you check your breasts yet?”
It’s really that simple; examining our breasts each month should be as routine and as easy as brushing our teeth twice a day. And just like taking care of our teeth, it’s our responsibility to take care of our breasts.
I know so many women who tell me their husband found their lump or their boyfriend found a lump. The question I really want to ask (but never do) is, “why didn’t you find it yourself”?
If we examine our breasts on a regular basis (preferably once a month) we are much more likely to discover a lump sooner, while it is still small and can be more easily dealt with.
The best thing about self-breast exam: it’s free, it’s easy and you don’t have to coordinate it with anyone else’s schedule!
Patricia Brett is a BRCA1+ pre-vivor, mom, and founder and designer of Veronica Brett, the new luxury collection of swimwear for breast cancer survivors, pre-vivors and anyone who just wants to look great in a swimsuit again!
