Pink Means Awareness

She spent most of her time in Saudi Arabia. I rarely see her when I was young, but I always remember her hearty smile that lights up every conversation. She went back here after eight years to live with her second husband in Laguna. We only see her during the annual family reunion and other family occassions like my grand parents' birthday or, as they call it, emergency reunions. Aunt Melissa has always something interesting to share about her job, her son, and her new life with her new family. It seems that everything was alright everytime we see her. 

One day, the whole family heard a very dreadful news: Aunt Melissa was diagnosed with breast cancer. Even though she's not vocal about it, I saw how her spirit melted. It started with baldness because of the theraphy, then her health suffered because of the complication. She was bed-ridden when she joined us on her last two family reunions.

She died three years ago. 

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Pink ribbon is the symbol of this month's celebration. I dedicate this entry to my late Aunt Melissa and to other women who are still bravely battling with the disease.  

To know more about Breast Cancer, visit The Philippine Breast Cancer Network website.