With the physical death of pop culture phenomenon Suzanne Somers as a result of breast cancer; and with the physical death of famed singer and breast cancer advocate Olivia Newton John; and with the physical death of American Surgeon, author and prominent advocate of preventative breast cancer, Dr. Susan Love, it is time to stop and reflect upon their life accomplishments. These three women were brave enough to use their celebrity status to help our society where too much breast cancer occurs. And despite their “physical” deaths, what they taught us is still very much alive in our culture.
Advocate of Medical Advancements
I won’t go into the professional careers of each except to acknowledge that an actress, a singer and a doctor found their purpose in life through their breast cancer experiences. They helped fuel the importance of advancement in treatment of women who are diagnosed, living with, or who are in remission from their cancer(s). And as with COVID perhaps there will be medical advancements in breast cancer so that women and men can be inoculated against the ravages of breast cancer.
Change is Needed
In order for change to happen to advance medical science, there needs to be constant questioning, continuing lifelong learning, research, and experimentation. Pushing the buttons of those who want to continue to run in place without any advancement is also needed. Acknowledging cultural belief systems and opinions and being educated about facts vs. fiction is also needed—something I address quite frequently. Separating myths from scientific proof is needed to educate the numerous issues that arise from breast cancer. And managing our automatic negative thoughts can change and encourage more self-reflection and self-discipline.
The “Three’s Company” women have been, and continue to be, a part of this process. Knowledge is gained from their interviews, books, and music, which continues to educate and encourage us to learn to make “quality of life” decisions that are right for us. They’ve taught us how much there is to learn and explore about ourselves. Understanding how hormones function in our bodies; surgical procedures and results that can occur after treatment; and questioning “cookie cutter” treatments and statistics before treatment to make “well-informed” decisions all advocate their purposes for life.
Three’s Company Helps
I met Dr. Love at Ventura College just before having my stereotactic guided needle biopsy that detected my first breast cancer. She thoroughly explained this uncomfortable procedure which lessened my fears. Her book, Dr. Susan Love’s Breast Book remains a staple in our Ribbons of Life library.
Suzanne’s book Knockout: Interviews with Doctors… had me seeking out and obtaining two of her medical doctors whose interviews were included in her book. I learned so much interesting information about all the hormones in my body and how they work.
The music of Dame Olivia in her CD Stronger Than Before has me holding onto each note along with her calming voice. Her accomplishments in founding a cancer wellness and research center encouraged me to lead the Ribbons of Life Breast Cancer Foundation team for many years to assist and educate those within Ventura County Community (and beyond) opening a breast cancer resource center and Create 4 Life art studio.
Very Much Alive
Most importantly, these Three’s Company women teach us about life. Despite their physical deaths, they have passed their research, findings and knowledge onto us to continue to help others on the carousel of life. We can carry their torches of wisdom to include sincere empathy for women. We can also continue to dismiss myths and beliefs that cloud the lenses of a multitude of breast cancer topics. Topics such as sex, hormones, marriage and children. Personal identity, friends, and family. Career, finances, disability, and end-of-life decisions. Pain management, guided imagery, and education. These Three’s Company women support our Ribbons of Life’s mission: “to provide breast cancer education, advocacy, emotional and social support.”
With their help, like with Ribbons of Life, we do not to feel so alone. We are reminded that too many other women–no matter their age, social rank or status juggle. They juggle medical, professional, and personal issues. They sometimes experience overanalysis paralysis. Suzanne, Dame Olivia and Dr. Susan love have demonstrated and educated us with new ways to achieve a sense of balance. And their efforts still assist Ribbons of Life in becoming the amazing community-service charity that it is today. They move us from remaining silent to taking positive actions towards creating positive changes in our precious lives. And they come and knock on our door with their love-based messages as Ribbons of Life continues to play their song…
Come and knock on our door.
Take a step that is new.
We’ve a lovable space that needs your face,
Three’s company too!
