Rachel K. Belkin

16 years.
Today I’m… celebrating? Perhaps ‘recognizing’ is a better word. It’s been 16 years since my life changed.

16 years since I got the phone call that what three doctors thought was just a cyst… was actually cancer. 16 years since my kids, just 3 and 1 at the time, were playing with friends at our house during a playgroup get-together, and my phone rang. 16 years since “breast cancer” was added to my medical records.

Every year, I write something to mark the time. I’m still thankful, of course. But I’ve kind of run out of new things to say, and I’m okay with that.

So, this post is a reminder: Know your body. Speak up. Advocate for yourself.

And with October around the corner, remember, everyone’s breast cancer story is different. A few years ago, I wrote an article for HuffPost about what it’s like to be a breast cancer survivor in October. It can be complicated, especially when the world is cheering and pink-washing, and you’re just trying to process, cope, or grieve. Not everyone wants pink confetti or a cheer squad. Some are still in the fight. Some didn’t get the outcome they hoped for.

If you want to help, ask your local breast cancer community what they actually need. Meals, errands, financial help?

And before buying a pink product or making a donation, take a moment to read about the nonprofit behind it. Make sure their funds are going toward research, programs, and services—not just awareness.

Some of my favorites include the Breast Cancer Resource Center and Wonders & Worries , which personally supported us during my journey, and Metavivor, which focuses on metastatic breast cancer awareness, research, and support.

And remember, I’m always here for you. An open book. If you ever want to ask questions, need support, or just want someone to listen who truly understands, reach out.