October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time that always stirs something deep within me.
Breast cancer touches so many lives and families, changing them forever.
For me, it’s deeply personal.
My brilliant Massiji (my maternal aunt) was diagnosed with breast cancer at just 48. She was vibrant, kind, full of life and gone far too soon. We lost her months after her 50th birthday, and even now, years later, I feel that loss deep in my soul.
Watching someone you love go through something so painful reshapes your perspective. It makes you realise what truly matters and what doesn’t.
If the past year has taught me anything, it’s this: nothing matters more than our health and the people we love.
Why we need to talk especially in South Asian communities
In many South Asian families, conversations about health — especially women’s health — can feel uncomfortable, even taboo. We often whisper about illness, or hide it completely, thinking silence will protect us.
But silence doesn’t protect us. It isolates us.
I’ve seen women ignore symptoms, delay check-ups, or avoid talking about what’s happening to their bodies because of fear or stigma. But these are the very conversations that could save lives.
Having the courage to talk about breast health, to ask questions, to share stories, to remind each other to check, is an act of love.
And that’s why I wanted to write this post. Because awareness is more than pink ribbons and campaigns. It’s about empowering ourselves and our communities with information, compassion and courage.
Early detection saves lives
Breast cancer, when caught early, is often treatable. That’s why self-awareness is so important.
So please, whoever you are, wherever you’re reading this from — make self-checks a regular part of your life. You can do them monthly, in the shower or in front of the mirror. Look for any changes, in size, shape, or texture.
And if something doesn’t feel right, please don’t wait. Speak to a doctor. Trust your instincts.
Your body is always communicating with you, learn to listen.
Health is not selfish
As women and especially as South Asian women we often put everyone else’s needs before our own. We care for families, juggle careers, manage responsibilities and somehow still find ways to carry others through their storms.
But how often do we pause to care for ourselves? We can’t pour from an empty cup. Self-care isn’t indulgence, it’s responsibility.
When we take care of our health, when we book that check-up, rest when we need to, or prioritise nutrition and movement, we’re not being selfish. We’re setting an example. For our daughters, our sisters, our friends.
Because health is legacy.
Losing my Massiji was painful. But it’s also what drives me to keep having these conversations, no matter how uncomfortable they may be.
Each October, when I see the pink ribbons and awareness campaigns, I think of her, her laughter, her warmth, her courage. And I remind myself that awareness means action.
It’s speaking openly.
It’s checking in on our loved ones.
It’s booking that mammogram.
It’s using our voices to create change.
Through Inspire Club and Asian Women Mean Business, I’ve seen how powerful community can be, how women supporting women creates ripple effects of strength and healing. When one of us speaks up, it gives others permission to do the same.
That’s how we honour the women we’ve lost by helping others live.
This month, let’s go beyond awareness. Let’s turn compassion into action.
- Make self-checks a regular habit.
- Encourage the women around you to do the same.
- Share stories because your words might just save someone’s life.
We can’t control everything, but we can take responsibility for our health and we can hold our loved ones close while we do it.
For my Massiji. For all the women we’ve lost. And for the ones still here, may we choose courage, compassion, and care.
