Former first lady of France Carla Bruni recounted, “Every year, on the same date, I do a mammogram. If I hadn’t done one every year, I wouldn’t have a left breast today.”
Carla Bruni, the 55-year-old supermodel and former first lady of France, bravely disclosed her battle with breast cancer, a diagnosis she received four years ago. She chose to share this deeply personal journey through a video on Instagram in honour of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In the video, Bruni used sign cards to convey her diagnosis in both French and English. She began her message by saying, “I was diagnosed with breast cancer 4 years ago,” and went on to explain the conventional treatments she underwent, including surgery, radiotherapy, and hormone therapy. Bruni expressed her gratitude for catching cancer at a stage when it was not yet aggressive, emphasising that early detection played a crucial role in her fortunate outcome. Reflecting on the importance of annual mammograms, Bruni highlighted the pivotal role they played in her journey. She recounted, “Every year, on the same date, I do a mammogram. If I hadn’t done one every year, I wouldn’t have a left breast today.”
Acknowledging her hesitancy in discussing such a personal matter, Bruni made a heartfelt plea to her followers, urging them to prioritise regular breast cancer screenings.
She clarified, “I’m not writing this post to give you the details of my health. That’s repugnant to me. The reason I’m posting this today is to deliver a message. But a fundamental message for all the women who will read this: Do your mammograms every year. Do your mammograms. Your lives depend on it.”
Bruni concluded her message with the hashtag “#octobrerose,” signifying “Pink October”.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month, observed every October, stands as a vital global initiative aimed at shedding light on this grave ailment. This dedicated month plays a pivotal role in raising awareness about breast cancer, highlighting the importance of early detection, extending unwavering support to survivors, and advancing critical research efforts.Breast Cancer Awareness Month, observed every October, stands as a vital global initiative aimed at shedding light on this grave ailment. This dedicated month plays a pivotal role in raising awareness about breast cancer, highlighting the importance of early detection, extending unwavering support to survivors, and advancing critical research efforts.
The inception dates back to the 1980s, a time when concerted efforts began to address this pressing health issue.
Over the past five years alone, a staggering 7.8 million women worldwide have grappled with the complexities of breast cancer, making it the most prevalent cancer on a global scale, according to the World Health Organization.
This reality underscores the urgency of this annual campaign, uniting individuals, organisations, and communities in the fight against breast cancer and in the pursuit of a world where it is no longer a pervasive threat.
