Happy Mother’s Day to our Moms!!
From a young age, my mother and father have always stressed the importance of living a healthy lifestyle. We would go on Sunday family hikes, prepare fresh dinners together, and go on long walks with our dog. They knew the consequences of not living healthfully all too well. Many family members had died prematurely due to heart attacks caused by cardiovascular disease, for which risks can be greatly reduced by regular exercise and a healthy diet. These losses in our lives were constant reminders to always live the safest and healthiest life possible.
When I was a freshman in college, I was at my sorority’s annual breast cancer fundraiser where the Protect Our Breasts girls were tabling. My parents both struck up a conversation with the founder, Cynthia and encouraged me to talk to her as they knew I was already deeply dedicated and passionate. Quickly, I knew I had to be a part of Protect Our Breasts.
As the Science Director of Protect Our Breasts, I am responsible for translating the hard science from peer-reviewed journal articles into digestible facts and tips for my peers. My mom is always so excited to hear what I have learned and embraces living an organic lifestyle with me. She now uses reusable stainless steel water bottles, only buys organic produce, and chooses clean cosmetics and safer cleaning supplies. In Protect Our Breasts, we emphasize the importance of the window of susceptibility– that women, from in-utero through one’s first full-term pregnancy, are in a sensitive exposure period because their breasts are developing.
I honestly would not be the woman I am today without my mom. She has been a role model in my life in many ways– whether it is how to live a healthy lifestyle or how to be a strong independent woman, she is truly my go-to. She embraces my passions and encourages me to reach for my dreams. This mother’s day, two days after graduating from college, I am especially appreciative of her endless support and love. Thank you for always pushing me to reach my fullest potential, Mom! Happy Mother’s day to all the mothers out there!!
