The Pink Ribbon : A Sisterhood Without An Age Limit

There is a specific kind of quiet that settles over Detroit and Ann Arbor as October begins. It’s not just the cooling air; it’s the sea of pink ribbons that start appearing on lapels, in shop windows, and across campus. As a woman who has spent her life navigating the beauty of our community, from the theaters of Detroit to the lecture halls at Michigan, Breast Cancer Awareness Month always feels deeply personal because of who I know. And trust me…we all know someone. I even know a man who fought with it!

For us, health isn’t just about a doctor’s appointment; it’s an act of self-care and a commitment to our future selves. I remember watching the women in my family move through the world with such grace, even when facing their own health battles. They taught me that our bodies are the vessels for our artistry, our intellect, and our legacy. When we talk about “The Pink Ribbon,” we aren’t just talking about a cause. We are talking about the grandmothers, mothers, daughters, sisters, cousins, and even uncles who make our world what it is.

This month, I’m making a ritual out of checking in. Not just with my own body, but with the women in my circle. I’m using my Sunday resets to remind myself that honoring my health is the highest form of self-love. Whether it’s scheduled screenings or simply taking the time to breathe and listen to what my body needs, I’m moving with intention. We are often so busy building our worlds and chasing our future Billionaire dreams that we forget to tend to the woman who has to live in them.

Understanding the landscape helps us advocate for ourselves and our sisters more effectively.

• Impact on Black Women: While breast cancer incidence rates are similar between Black and white women, Black women are 40% more likely to die from the disease. This disparity highlights the critical need for early detection and quality care within our community.
• A Common Journey: Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among Black women. It is also the leading cause of cancer-related death in this group.
• Early Detection is Power: When breast cancer is caught in its localized stage (before it has spread), the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%.
• Youth Awareness: Although less common in younger women, breast cancer in those under 40 can be more aggressive. This makes it vital for high school girls and college-aged women to establish a “baseline” for what is normal for their bodies.
• Optional Yet Worth The Conversation & Consideration: In times such as these, I suggest black females consult and receive care from black female doctors. Who reflects you matters. There is also a reason black women pass away 40% more and one of them is due to the lack of care from those who don’t look like us. And this goes towards a lot of medical topics: pregnancy, blood pressure, etc.

I challenge you this week to do more than just wear the ribbon. Reach out to a woman you love. Share a moment of vulnerability. Remind her, and yourself, that our strength is found in our sisterhood and our willingness to protect our own well-being. Incorporate these into your monthly Sunday Resets to ensure you are tending to your health with the same grace you give your art and studies.

• Know Your “Normal”: The best way to notice a change is to know how your body usually feels. Perform a self-exam once a month—usually a few days after your period ends—to check for any new lumps, thickening, or skin changes.
• Trace Your Lineage: Spend time talking to the women in your family about their health history. Knowing if breast or ovarian cancer runs in your family helps you and your doctor determine if you need earlier or more frequent screenings.
• The Power of Lifestyle: While some factors are out of our control, a balanced diet and regular physical activity can help lower risk. Consider your workouts—whether it’s dancing or walking across campus—as an investment in your long-term wellness.
• Be Your Own Advocate: If you notice a change, don’t wait. Gracefully but firmly ask your healthcare provider for an evaluation. You know your body better than anyone else.

Stay feminine, stay focused, and remember: Your health is the foundation of your throne. You are a Goddess honoring the vessel that carries your dreams, and your wellness is a sacred offering. You’re just a woman, but the world is held together by the resilience and radiance of your spirit.

With love,