Flip through the latest issue of Gulf Weekly.
I have received mixed emotions and reactions as a result of last week's column.
There have been those who have been touched and encouraged their female friends and family members to have a routine screening test for cancer.
But, there are those who have not yet fully comprehended why it is necessary for women to go for regular check-up routines and tests even if they feel perfectly fine and healthy.
Cancer has different degrees and stages, or shall I say levels, which a person can be diagnosed at. My own mother was at stage three (where it means the cancer is larger and there are cancer cells in the lymph nodes within the area) when she first discovered the lump on her left breast in 2000.
With extensive chemotherapy and radiation therapy she was able to beat cancer, only later to realise that the cancer had resurfaced and it was too late and too advanced for any chance of recovery.
My own grandfather, may he rest in peace, discovered the cancer in him at stage four where it had spread to other areas. People who discover their cancer at this last stage usually have a slim chance of survival.
That is why doctors encourage women to regularly screen themselves because if you discover the cancer, it is better to discover it when it is at stage one or two because that is when there are is the best chance to beat it.
Many people prefer to enjoy life today and delay what might, or might not, provide bad results.
But remember, if you feel too scared to do it all alone; do not forget that your family will be there to support you.
Deep in my heart I am sure that Bahrain is serious about fighting breast cancer and raising awareness.
Let us all work together and support those individuals of society who feel all alone when it comes to the "cancer" issue.
