October is designated as “Breast Cancer Awareness Month.” This year, the message has hit close to home.

In August, my wife underwent her annual basic mammogram. She was later notified to return for more extensive mammograms. We then learned she needed a biopsy and from the result of that, surgery was necessary.

Her surgery was performed on August 25 and was successful. She is now undergoing a 35-day radiation treatment which, as of this date, has completed 22 treatments and counting down the final 13.

I’m happy to report that the treatments are going well and Jeanne is doing fine.

When we first got the news we, naturally, were concerned about what the future held. I told Jeanne, instead of letting fear creep in, let’s thank God for the technology that detected a problem which, with treatment, can be cured.

The good news about a bad report is that with regular checkups, danger signs can be detected and what could eventually be terminal, can be treated and full recovery possible.

Dr. Elizabeth Steiner, director of the Oregon Cancer Institute’s Breast Health Education Program, said that when breast cancer is detected early, and it is confined to the breast, it can be cured 95 percent of the time.

The sad news is that too many women neglect the precautionary measures that should be taken to detect early signs of breast cancer. Many women go to an early grave that could have been avoided, if only they would have taken care of their physical health.

I thank God that, because of His wisdom and mercy, Jeanne will continue to live and be a blessing to our family.

If you have any questions, or comments, please write to Get High on Life, P. O. Drawer U, Reserve, LA 70084, call (985) 652-8477, or e-mail: hkeller@comcast.net.