By Pat Elliott Expert HERWriter Guide Blogger October 2, 2010 - 11:40am

It seems like we now see breast cancer awareness activities year round, with a ramped up push during the official celebration in the month of October. We are flooded with products to buy, races to run, causes that need contributions and much, more more. What I rarely see, however, is someone asking a woman who has breast cancer what she is thinking, feeling and wanting to say to other women about this disease.

For those of you who are breast cancer survivors, like me, what does this month mean to you? It is a show of solidarity that you're glad to see? Is it a time when you feel more comfortable discussing what you've been through? Is it a time of reflection and gratitude? Do you reach out to others to help them understand the need for prevention and early detection? Is it a gross commercialization period that makes you mad? Do you feel the various October events represent you? What's on YOUR mind right now?

I personally would never want to go back to the days when breast cancer was simply not discussed and too many women were afraid to go to the doctor and waiting until their cancer hit a late stage to seek help. No woman should be embarrassed about this medical condition and all women are entitled to the early detection tools that save lives. Still, I do wonder what message pink frosted cup cakes at the grocery store, pink hair spray and nail polish at the beauty supply store and other pink retail campaigns have to do with getting us the help and support that we really need, especially since no matter what type of insurance you have, or how great a treatment facility you use, there are many costs of this cancer that are not being addressed for women as individuals.

Let us know what you think, we'd love to hear from you!