Celebrating Bisexual Visibility Month
September isn’t just the beginning of fall here in Worcester, MA, it’s also known globally as Bisexual Visibility Month. This month-long celebration is all about honoring and uplifting the individuals who find themselves somewhere on the spectrum of bisexuality. Whether you're bisexual yourself or an ally, bisexuality has a long history and deserves to be recognized. Recognition is a form of celebration and encourages others to learn about the history of bisexuality and important bisexual men and women current day and historically.
Bi Visibility Month: A History
Bisexual Visibility Month, also known as Bisexual Awareness Month, has its roots in LGBTQ+ activism. September became officially recognized as Bi Visibility Month in 1999, thanks to the tireless efforts of Wendy Curry, Gigi Raven Wilbur, and other change-making LGBTQ+ activists. Officially, Bisexual Visibility Day is celebrated every year on September 23rd.
The purpose of celebrating bisexuality for the month was simple yet profound: to shine a spotlight on bisexuality and to combat the stigma and stereotypes surrounding it. By devoting a whole month to celebrating and raising awareness about bisexuality, activists hope to ensure that everyone feels seen, heard, and respected. Read more in-depth about the history of bisexuality and the individuals who worked hard to be seen and heard.
So… What is Bi Visibility Month, Exactly?
Bi Visibility Month is a time to celebrate, educate, and advocate for the bisexual community. Historically, bisexuality has been widely misunderstood or written off entirely, leading to harmful stereotypes and erasure of bisexual identity and individuals. Dedicating the month of September to bisexual awareness provides a platform to debunk myths and foster understanding. Simply put, it’s all about letting people know that bisexuality is valid and that love knows no gender boundaries.
The Importance of Bisexual Visibility
LGBTQ+ activists envisioned a world in which everyone would be able to love who they love and suffer no discrimination, violence, or hate. Celebrating bisexual visibility every September is about creating a world where every bisexual individual feels safe to express themselves and their love, and is ultimately accepted and cherished for who they are.
Visibility matters because it helps combat biphobia and fosters inclusivity. When bisexual individuals see themselves not only acknowledged but represented and celebrated, it leads to increased self-acceptance and a sense of belonging. On the surface, this may seem simple, but cultivating these positive feelings actually leads to diminished experiences of depression and self-harm in the LGBTQ+ community. Bi Visibility Month is a step toward reducing mental health disparities in the bisexual community and improving overall well-being, physically and emotionally.
Everyone Benefits
Bisexual Visibility Month isn't just for the bisexual community; it's for everyone. Below are a few reasons that Bisexual Visibility Month is crucial in our communities:
Education and Awareness: By learning about bisexuality, schools, workplaces, and families, are able to break down stereotypes and prejudices. This knowledge can lead to more inclusive and accepting communities. Learn more about bisexuality.
Support and Allyship: Celebrating Bisexual Visibility Month shows support for the bisexual community, making bisexual individuals feel valued, seen, and understood. Gain a deeper understanding of cultivating allyship.
Intersectionality: Bisexuality intersects with other aspects of identity, such as race, gender, and disability. Recognizing and celebrating this diversity promotes a more inclusive society and ensures the support of each and every individual. Read more about intersectionality.
Mental Health: As we mentioned earlier, increased visibility improves the mental health and well-being of bisexual individuals. A happier, healthier community benefits us all.
How To Get Involved
Celebrating Bisexual Visibility Month is all about participating to make a difference in our communities. Here are some ways to get involved…
Educate Yourself: Take the time to learn about bisexuality, its history, and the challenges bisexual individuals face.
Show Your Support: Attend local events, engage with social media campaigns, and wear purple, the official color of Bisexual Visibility Month.
Amplify Bisexual Voices: Share articles, books, and art created by bisexual individuals. Give them a platform to share their experiences, and don’t forget to listen!
Donate: Consider donating to organizations that support the LGBTQ+ community.
Attend Inclusive Events
Celebrating Bi Visibility Month involves heightened awareness and learning, but it should also involve fun!
We are excited to share that we have a fantastic event lined up for the beginning of October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month! At Pawsitively 4 Pink, we have created an incredibly supportive and inclusive community centered around supporting local Worcester women battling breast cancer. Our events bring locals together to raise money for local underserved women so that we can make a direct financial impact on their lives. Join us on October 7th for our "Rhythm 4 Ribbons" event. We'll be hosting some incredible live music and local food trucks. This is a fantastic opportunity to connect in a safe, supportive environment and aid a worthy cause!
If you can’t make it to Rhythm 4 Ribbons, don’t worry - there are more events on the way! If you’re interested in getting involved in Pawsitively 4 Pink by hosting a percentage night or volunteering, please don’t hesitate to reach out! Or, support Worcester women fighting breast cancer with a direct donation. Every dollar makes a difference!
A Guide to Mammograms: What Age Do Mammograms Start, What Are Mammograms Like, and More
Firstly, we want to congratulate you on doing the necessary research to be ready for your mammogram! Yes, getting a mammogram for the first time is intimidating, but if you’ve successfully scheduled and overcome a pap smear, you are capable of anything.
Mammograms are used to detect early signs of breast cancer. Breast cancer is most treatable in its early stages, which is why preventative checks are so crucial for women. Mammograms are similar to getting an X-ray of your breast tissue. They allow doctors to physically see inside breasts to check out what, exactly, is happening in there. They’re especially useful because they really give the doctor everything they need to know - these days, mammograms capture even the most minute details, so they’re highly effective. Trust us, scheduling a mammogram is worth every woman’s time.
So, what’s the difference between a mammogram and an ultrasound?
An ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves that bounce off the tissues within our bodies, which a computer then converts to an image.
A mammogram, on the other hand, is a low-dose version of an X-ray, which is why metal plates are needed during the procedure. The electrodes released during the mammogram have to bounce off the surrounding metal to capture the image of the mammogram, showing healthcare providers any breast cancer or other breast diseases present. Sometimes, both mammograms and ultrasounds are used in tandem to help the doctor understand what is going on within the breast.
Ultrasounds are not a replacement for mammograms of breast cancer, but aid doctors in checking any abnormal areas found in patients with mammograms of dense breast tissue. They are used in addition to a mammogram, but never replace one entirely!
Nowadays, doctors will decide to administer one of three types of mammograms: film-screen mammography, digital mammography in 2D, and digital mammography in 3D.
What is digital mammography in 2D?
This practice takes two images of each breast and uses them to create a 2D image of each. It was standard practice until 2011.
What is digital mammography in 3D?
Also known as digital breast tomosynthesis, digital tomosynthesis, or just tomosynthesis, 3D digital mammography uses several images of each breast to create a detailed 3D image of the breast. This has become standard care for breast cancer after gaining approval from the FDA in 2011. Studies show that 3D digital mammography finds more cancers than the traditional 2D method and gives fewer false positives.
What is film-screen mammography?
This type of mammogram produces black-and-white images on film, takes a little more time to create, and was more commonly administered in the past.
What’s the age of the first mammogram in the U.S.?
The United States Preventative Services Taskforce recommends that women begin to regularly schedule screening mammograms at the age of 40. After, mammograms should be scheduled every one to two years for a breast check-up if there are no symptoms found.
When should I begin self-examining my breasts?
This is another crucial preventative step! And it’s a quick and simple process. Young women should begin self-examining their breasts as soon as they mature and their breasts stop growing, or around the age of 20. Read through this helpful guide on how to self-examine your breasts.
When women examine their breasts regularly beginning at a young age, they are more likely to discover any irregularities or changes before they develop into something more serious. Self-examination is another fantastic preventative practice all young women should include in their weekly schedules.
Waiting until the week after your period to conduct self-examinations is recommended to avoid any pain or abnormalities caused by hormone fluctuations and swelling.
When self-examining breasts, always look out for…
- Lumps that are new, growing, or changing shape.
- Swelling or thickening of a certain area or part of the breast or armpit.
- Nipple abnormalities like reddening, flaking, pulling in, or discharge.
- Pain that is sudden, irregular, or creates constant discomfort.
- Changes in size that are sudden or seem out-of-the-blue, unrelated to hormonal fluctuations or periods.
If you discover any of these symptoms of breast cancer, reach out to your doctor or schedule a diagnostic mammogram with a doctor near you to check your breasts as soon as possible.
Take a closer look at mammogram screening guidelines.
So, whether it’s your first time getting a mammogram at age 40 or taking preventative steps and scheduling a diagnostic mammogram early,…
Here’s Our Step-by-Step Guide to Your First Mammogram
Schedule a Mammogram Appointment:
- Ask your doctor or do some research to find a reputable mammography facility or clinic in your area.
- Call or register online to schedule an appointment.
- Make sure they specialize in mammograms and have qualified radiologists!
Timing:
- Avoid scheduling the appointment during the week before your period when your breasts may be more sensitive. Although mammograms are not invasive, pressure is applied to the breast which can create discomfort.
Clothing and Comfort:
- We recommend wearing a two-piece outfit, as you'll need to undress from the waist up.
- Avoid wearing deodorant, lotions, or powders on your upper body, as they can interfere with the imaging.
Communicate and Share:
- Sharing your medical history, prior surgeries, or family history of breast cancer can help doctors provide the best care.
- Always inform the technician if you have breast implants or have had any breast-related procedures or concerns.
How long do mammograms take?
- Roughly 20 minutes!
- You’ll be asked to undress from the waist up and will be given a gown to wear during the procedure.
The Procedure:
- First, the technician will position your breast between two metal plates on the mammography machine.
- Then, the plates will compress your breast for a few seconds to get the clearest images. While it may feel uncomfortable or slightly painful, it shouldn't be overly painful. Communicate any discomfort you feel to the technician.
- Because mammograms usually involve two images of each breast taken from different angles, the technician may reposition your breast between images.
After the Procedure:
- Once the images are taken, you'll be asked to wait while the technician ensures the images they captured are high-quality.
- Once the quality of the images is confirmed, you can get dressed.
       Some women may experience mild bruising or temporary discomfort. This should subside quickly.
How long does it take to get mammogram test results?
- You’ll receive your results within a few weeks after your radiologist interprets your mammogram and sends the results to your healthcare provider.
      Don't panic if you're called back for additional tests, as most callbacks do not indicate breast cancer.
What to Do Before and After a Mammogram:
- Stay relaxed and take deep breaths before the procedure - always communicate discomfort and pain to your doctor!
- Follow all instructions given to you by the mammography facility.
- Afterward, continue to schedule regular mammogram screenings as recommended by your healthcare provider.
- Know your mammogram schedule and never skip routine screenings.
What Not to Do Before and After a Mammogram:
- Don't wear metallic accessories or clothing items, as they interfere with the mammogram images.
- Try not to schedule your mammogram at a time when your breasts are likely to be sore or swollen to avoid discomfort.
- Don't be afraid to ask questions and voice any concerns to your technician or radiologist.
We hope this guide on how to prepare for your first mammogram helps; that’s what we’re here for! At Pawsitively 4 Pink, our passion is providing direct financial support for local, underserved women fighting breast cancer. Please contact us to find out more about ways to help, or donate directly.
Spring cleaning? Get rid of products causing cancer
Spring is here and we all know what that means: We’re opening up our windows, letting the sun and fresh air in, cleaning off appliances, window frames, and everything else that has collected dust during these winter months, and welcoming this new season into our homes. There are countless spring cleaning rituals, and cleaning habits in general, that serve the soul as well as the body. Unfortunately, however, there are also a wide variety of products we’re accustomed to using that contain harmful chemicals linked to free radicals and cancer.Â
The array of cleaning products that most of us rely on promises to make our spaces spotless and sanitized, and although they work well making our whitest whites even whiter, they also make use of toxic chemicals in high concentrations to get the job done. Recent studies have shed light on the potential dangers lurking in many of these products. Many everyday cleaning and lifestyle products have been linked to the creation of free radicals within our bodies and have been associated with an increased risk of cancer. So, when it’s time for spring cleaning in your home, take a look at your cleaning products as well as other products you’re using on a daily basis and evaluate the impact they may be having on your health and cancer risk.Â
Household cleaners and cancer: Spotless homes, high-risk for humans
Many conventional household cleaners, such as all-purpose cleaners, window cleaners, and bathroom cleaners, contain toxic chemicals like ammonia, chlorine, and formaldehyde. As we use these chemicals they release free radicals when they come into contact with air or water, leading to oxidative stress in the body when we breathe them in or they make contact with our bare skin. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body's ability to neutralize them with antioxidants. Prolonged exposure to free radicals can damage cells and their DNA, potentially leading to cancer.
Instead of using traditional name-brand cleaners, we recommend making your own surface cleaner with naturally-occurring products like lemon juice and vinegar that get the job done well and leave homes smelling fresh! Dish soap also works like a charm on many different surfaces; not just dishes. Limit your exposure to free radicals and figure out how to create your own safe cleaning solution here.Â
All that smells well does not end well
Air fresheners are commonly used in public and private spaces to mask unpleasant odors and get rid of unwanted smells completely. Everything from scented candles to car fresheners and perfumes has been linked to causing cancer, specifically breast cancer. Commercial air fresheners contain harmful chemicals such as phthalates, formaldehyde, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that increase cancer risk. Similar to cancers caused by smoking, these chemicals are released into the air and inhaled, they generate free radicals in the body. And that means they aren’t worth it - no matter how good they smell! So, in the name of spring cleaning, let the fresh air in and toss the scented cancer-causing products out!
While long-term exposure to these products has been found to increase the risk of cancer, they also cause respiratory issues, worsened allergies, migraines, and other complications. To find out more about how scented products affect our breast cancer risk, read more here.
Be careful with “self-careâ€
It's not just household cleaning products that can be harmful; personal care products can also contain ingredients linked to free radical generation and cancer risk. For example, certain shampoos, body washes, and hand soaps contain sulfates, parabens, and phthalates, which disrupt the body's hormonal balance and trigger oxidative stress. Which, unfortunately, creates more free radicals within our bodies! Some cosmetics and skincare products that are long-lasting or water-resistant contain PFAS, or “forever chemicalsâ€, which have been linked to birth defects, thyroid issues, and yes, cancer. Read more about how to avoid forever chemicals and decrease your risk of cancer with our previous blog post on holistic breast health.
Luckily, there are resources like EWG Skin Deep, a company that compiled a database full of commonly used cosmetics and personal care goods that could be products causing cancer. Take a look to see if your products contain harmful chemicals here.
And please take a peek at the many nontoxic products out there, there are so many to choose from!
Pick your produce carefully
Pesticides control pests in and around our homes, but they pose serious health risks, containing chemicals that (once again) generate free radicals when exposed to air or water, which down the line can cause cancer. Pesticides are linked to various types of cancers, most notably breast, prostate, and lung cancer, and they can be on anything from in-season strawberries to flown-in from out-of-state eggplants. Yes, we can help prevent breast cancer by washing our food! Our recommendation: buy organic, but we understand how expensive that can be, so the next best option is to wash produce with warm water and vinegar, as explained here. Prevent breast cancer food
Forever-chemicals and your kitchen
Yes, non-stick cookware is widely known for its convenience, but unfortunately, that convenience compromises our health. Non-stick pots and pans are hidden sources of free radicals because they are made with coatings consisting of per fluorinated compounds (PFCs), which can break down when heated and release toxic fumes. When these surfaces are scratched with other cookware items like metal spatulas, forks, or knives, this interruption of the surface’s protective seal allows per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS, or forever chemicals) to be released into the surrounding air and food. Ingesting these chemicals is, of course, not advised and leads us to consume cancer-causing free radicals at an alarming rate.
Some of our favorite alternative cookware is made of cast iron. Not only is cast iron easy to care for and heavy-duty, cooking with it also increases our iron intake, a mineral crucial for human health.Â
Unfortunately, some of our favorite household products may be causing us more harm than good. Products causing cancer must go! Although there is no way to ensure we won’t develop cancer at some point in our lives, living a life in which we minimize contact with these products significantly lowers our risk and might just stop breast cancer and other kinds of cancer from developing altogether. Check the labels on your cleaning and cosmetics products to see if they contain any of the chemicals we mentioned in this article. If they do, toss them and start anew! That’s what spring cleaning is all about anyway, right?
Pawsitively4Pink is a breast cancer nonprofit organization dedicated to providing direct financial aid to underserved women in our local area in Massachusetts. If you’re passionate about our cause, please check out our website for how to get involved. And if you or someone you know battling cancer needs direct financial assistance or a community to lean on, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
The Importance of Self-love in the Breast Cancer Journey
While one incredible aspect of your fight against cancer is realizing the mass quantity of people in your life that deeply love and care about you, radical self-love will be what buoys you through your cancer journey.
In many ways, the externally sourced love that our friends, family, and spouses provide is one of the most beautiful things we can experience. External love is highly sought after but comes in second place after true self-love. We can practice true self-love by taking the time to understand, nourish, and care for ourselves deeply, hence providing the courage, resilience, and positivity that help remedy breast cancer.
The breast cancer journey - from diagnosis to treatment and remission - is a winding path that only one person in your life will witness every second of. That’s you. Bearing witness to your illness, struggle, and eventually overcoming cancer altogether is you; body, mind, and soul. That’s why it's critical to give yourself the love you need, to treat every part of you with the same respect, diligence, and duty that you provide to those around you. Nourishing your body with the right food and drink, your mind with enriching books or entertaining TV shows, and your spirit with mindfulness or gratitude practice is exactly what will guide your recovery during all the highs and especially the lows.
Self-compassion is bound to bloom
It’s easier said than done. Self-love can prove difficult for many, especially those who fall into the traditional female role; or those who have been the givers in our society rather than the receivers of selflessness and affection. It takes radical self-awareness and strength to turn that practice of giving around and, instead, aim it at ourselves. While it may be uncomfortable at first, getting used to practicing self-love provides us with the energy we need to make it through each day. There are a myriad of ways to explore and practice spiritually; from self-love affirmations, to self-love books, to even authoring a breast cancer blog that reflects on your journey and celebrates your achievements. A personal journal is another great way to let it all out - and there’s no need to be strictly positive here! Sometimes, the best way to feel heard is to let your deepest concerns and negative feelings out onto the page. Self-expression is essential to self-love; it’s important even on tougher days. Make space to listen to yourself.
Inspirational quotes about beating breast cancer and breast cancer affirmations may not be something you’ve appreciated in the past, but studies show that this intentional positivity brings self-awareness to the parts of ourselves that need it most. Many medical professionals believe that positivity affects everything from physical recovery after invasive surgeries to even lowering levels of pain and more. Many who receive their diagnosis have certain ideas regarding breast cancer. For example, some may think that the only person who is able to change the situation is the doctor, when it’s actually true that each sick individual has a certain power to shape their experience. So even if you’ve never tried it before, take a minute to say some of these self-love affirmations out loud to yourself. It’s even more helpful to repeat them while looking at yourself lovingly into a mirror. One of our favorites is “I bloom where I am planted. My roots have never been stronger.â€
Self-love sews the seeds of resilience
We strengthen our roots with self-love. Really paying attention to our needs, wants, and desires, and making sure those parts of ourselves feel heard is crucial because it’s what aids you in continuing to value yourself during such a tumultuous time. Valuing yourself in these moments when you may not feel as lovable as you once did is what builds resilience and tolerance for your lowest lows. Sometimes, knowing that you’re not alone in your experience is exactly the recognition, validation, and inspiration we need to keep going.Â
Our founder Michelle shares her story here, about the realizations she had while witnessing her mother and close friends battle against cancer and the thoughtful advice she has for patients and survivors. One suggestion she has is to keep both your body and mind nourished with healthy foods. Maintaining a well-fuelled body while you fight a detrimental physical illness is one of the keys to staying positive; there is no line where the body ends and the other mind begins. Staying healthy physically is also the key to staying balanced mentally. You can find eight of her favorite recipes for fighters and survivors here.
Becoming your own best friend
For some who struggle with self-love, it helps to imagine what you would say to or do for your best friend, or imagine that you are your own child. For many, it is easiest to show those closest to us unconditional love, and tapping into that feeling you have for your best friend, spouse, children, or parents is the most effective way to start to redirect that love back to yourself. Imagine seeing a loved one struggling the way you are and imagine what you would do for them. Maybe you would go to their house to watch their favorite movie and eat popcorn side by side, or make or buy them a small gift, or even bring them a bouquet of flowers. Now, try doing one of those things for yourself.Â
Another similar tool for starting your self-love journey is keeping a list of the activities and things you really enjoy - chocolate molten lava cake, listening to Fleetwood Mac, lighting a candle and drawing a bath, taking your dog for a long walk - and intentionally choose to do one of those things for yourself every day. Loving yourself throughout your cancer journey will make you endlessly compassionate towards yourself on the hard days, and motivate you to stay positive on your good days. We at Pawsitively 4 Pink know firsthand that there is no better way to spend your time than loving yourself well; you are your best asset.