To many October is just the month when the trees change colors, apple cider is sipped and the air gets crisp. But to me, October means more than that.

In addition to October being the fun fall month it’s also Breast Cancer Awareness month. No, I’m not survivor — but I know several. October is not just the time to remember that winter is coming: its the time to be thankful that that’s a winter you get to live. Breast cancer takes over 40 thousand people each year. Those individuals are someone’s mother, friends, sister, cousin, aunt or professor. This disease is killing our friends, co-workers, children, and family members.

Close your eyes and imagine what it would be like to not have cancer. It’s hard to imagine a world without cancer because cancer has become so present in our lives: 7.6 million people die of cancer worldwide each year. In the United States there are 318 people for every 100 thousand people that are diagnosed with cancer each year. This number does not include the survivors.

Relay for Life and Susan G. Komen are just two organizations that are taking many strides to hel find the cure to breast cancer. I personally have completed the Susan G. Komen 3 day challenge in memory of the family and friends that I have lost to breast cancer. I compete in Relay for Life each year. October has become a month of hope, strength, smiles and tears. I dream of the day when cancer is just a zodiac sign and pink ribbons are for pig tails. Do something for yourself this October and get your annual mammogram — it could save your life. Early detection is the best prevention. There are many cancer survivors thanks to regular exams and early detection.

Breast cancer is the number two cancer in the world, with lung cancer sitting high at number one. So stop smoking, and encourage others to quit smoking. Second hand smoking is in fact worse than smoking yourself. To save your life and a friend’s life, encourage them to quit smoking. Together we can make cancer a thing of the past.

When you are trick-or-treating, sipping warm apple cider, wearing flannels and sweaters, remember the millions of survivors, supporters, caretakers, and the ones that we have lost to breast cancer.

October means hope. Hope for the fighters, remember the lost, and be thankful for the survivors. Because one day pink ribbons should only be for pig tails and prom dresses!

In loving memory of everyone who has lost her/his battle to breast cancer.