September is __________ Cancer Awareness Month:

Ovarian Cancer
Childhood Cancer
Prostate Cancer
Thyroid Cancer

Gynecological cancer which includes
ovarian cancer
cervical cancer
vaginal cancer
vulvar cancer
uterine cancer

Blood Cancer (or more specifically)
Hodgkins Lymphoma
Leukemia
Lymphoma

All of these cancers deserve awareness but with such a crowded field, particularly in the month of September, how do you give each its proper due? What color do we turn Facebook for the month of September – gold, teal, orange, lime green, light blue, blue, teal/pink/blue, violet or peach? I am in no way making light of the need for awareness, but as an organization that works with all cancers, we also look at thinking beyond the ribbon.

We have said this before, and September being a month of multiple cancer awareness events, it bears repeating, it is important to KNOW YOUR FAMILY HISTORY. For that reason, here is a link to a simple form to fill in your family history. It is worth taking the time to sit down and talk with your parents and immediate family about their history and what they know of their parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles.

You should also listen to your body. I hesitate to promote hypochondriacal behavior, but it is important to find a balance between being blasé and having every ache and pain checked immediately. Look for doctors that you trust and can communicate with. Take the time to have a dialog with your doctor about any questions or concerns you may have. Make September your own personal “health awareness” month.