Breast cancer is not something we generally worry about if we are women under the age of 35.
And yet it exists, in somewhat alarming numbers.
The issues faced by such women can be different than those faced by women who are older and suffering from the same disease.
That’s why organizations like Young Survival Coalition are essential to the raising the morale of women battling breast cancer.
YSC was started 13 years ago by three women who were all diagnosed with breast cancer under the age of 35.
They saw the need for better information, research and resources for young women facing this disease and they decided to do something about it.
Some of the goals of Young Survival Coalition include
advocating for more studies about young women and breast cancer, educating young women about the importance of breast self-awareness and knowledge and serving as a community of support for young women with breast cancer.
While my decision to choose YSC as the beneficiary of my book launch party was connected in part to October being breast cancer awareness month, there were also personal reasons behind this decision. My aunt is currently battling breast cancer for the second time after suffering a very painful family tragedy. While she is not under 35, she still faces the difficulties that all women battling breast cancer do: fatigue, sickness, emotional and physical pain and profound changes in her body and appearance. My aunt is an extremely beautiful woman, inside and out. She has the warmest, most loving spirit. She constantly sings. When I was a child, she would clasp both hands around my cheeks, look deep in my eyes and ask me how I was doing while showering me with kisses. Come to think of it, she still does that. She has beautiful blonde hair, round, blue eyes and a gorgeous face. She has always paid attention to how she looks and carries herself – but that is normal for most French women. I adore her. So it’s difficult to know that she suffers because I love her, and because I don’t think she should ever have to suffer, particularly from something that debilitates her and dampens her spirit so. But I also know that she is not the only one to suffer in this way. And so if I can do something to help all women who are going through what she is going through, then I will feel better. Because while being diagnosed with breast cancer might be out of our control, offering resources, love and support to the women who are battling it is not.
To purchase tickets for Claire’s Book Party Fundraiser: www.movementstudiola.com and click on the new member special, then go to events.
Have you heard of Goddess Star Monroe? NO? Well she is sure to put a smile on your face and remind you of why you love pole in her latest book, "Goddess Star Monroe's Pole Essentials". This delicious book is meant to be used as an 'essential' addition to your pole training and dancing. It has step-by-step breakdowns of tricks, along with a picture and extra tips from Star. There is room on each page for you to make your own notes as well! The book is broken down into four levels and has a number of pole resources listed in the back, as well as quotes from prominent instructors. In fact, the Introduction is written by pole superstar Zoraya Judd, who shares a very inspirational story about how she got where she is today (Hint: It sounds like magic, but it isn't!) There is even a juicy quiz that helps you to determine your Secret Pole Personality. I'm a Vixen, by the way. But that's not a secret! What makes this book a standout is that Star doesn't just focus on the technicality of pole (although she is thorough in this department), she also talks about how pole "celebrates everything about being a woman - our curves, our sensuality, our femininity, or determination and our persistence." Her love of pole and of women literally sparkles its way off the pages and makes you feel happy, motivated and beautiful. But this comes as no surprise because Star has an extensive background in wellness, physical fitness training including yoga, pilates, pole and aerial arts, massage and counseling. So if you want a little bit of inspiration on your pole journey, then pick up "Goddess Star Monroe's Pole Essentials", read and feel the love.
Apparently this is my week to be interviewed. And I am not complaining! First there was the lovely Sheena LaShay, and now another beauty named Lorashel has posted an interview on her pole blog. Twirly Girl is how she is known in the Pole World
