It all started with a Netflix documentary and a self exam - a story of how Apple Cider Vinegar, which recaps the rise and fall of an influencer faking a terminal brain cancer diagnosis, prompted a conversation about breast exams that saved my life.

I have no family history of breast cancer. I am 36, dubbed ?too young? for a mammogram by our healthcare system. I don?t smoke, I don?t drink alcohol, I lead an active lifestyle, I eat clean and organic, and I have been purposely avoiding carcinogens in my lifestyle for well over a decade.

I am so far outside of the statistic, that my OBGYN told me ?I bet you $100 it?s not cancer.? (I will unpack advocating for yourself in the medical field at a later time, but I am so thankful I listened to my body over the sarcastic remarks of my doctor, whose job is to care for and protect women).

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.

Self examine, spread awareness, listen to your body, advocate for yourself, and don?t allow yourself to be dismissed. Early detection saves lives, as it is saving mine.