Today marks the first day of Colon Cancer Awareness Month, it is also “Wear Blue Day” in awareness for colon cancer. I lost my brother at the age of 33 to colon cancer in 2015. Not a day, goes by that I don’t think about him. Everything reminds me of him. I still want to call him or text him funny things I find.
I hate that cancer is a thing. Seriously, there are so many cancers and we know the cures are out there. Why do so many people have to suffer through the treatments? Colon cancer, specifically, is the third most common cancer in the United States. The American Cancer Society recently stated an estimated 101,420 NEW cases of colon cancer for 2019. And about half of those will result in death. And of those cases, more and more are occurring under the age of 40. Yet the screening for this is still not suggested until 50. With the rise of young people, teens even, getting this cancer, the medical industry really needs to take a look and lower the screening age. I have been screened twice in the last 4 years myself because of risk factors.
As always, we have to be an advocate for ourselves and others and stay aware of our health at all times. Make healthier choices and do the work.
Keeping everyone who has been affected by this cancer, and many others, in my thoughts today. Hopefully one day we won’t have to deal with it anymore.
Today I’m smiling
because you would be mad at me
for not doing so
Today I’m smiling
because my life with you
has been wonderful
Today I’m smiling
because the love you gave
out numbers most
Today I’m smiling
because so many times
I can hear your laugh
and see your smile
Today I’m smiling
because I know you are
watching over me
Today I’m smiling
because you and I, I know
were meant to be
Today I’m smiling
reminiscing on memories past
good and bad
Though the good seems to last
Today I’m smiling
because your love lives
inside of me
Because your smile is my smile
Today I’m smiling
Because you’re smiling
down on me
[4.15.2015]
Always and Forever, JP Payne 1982-2015
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