Embracing the Pink

Red Square. The Color Purple. Fifty Shades of Grey. The names of colors can evoke very specific images and emotions, at least when coupled with other words and read within a larger context. But then... there’s pink. Pink has the power to stand all alone against an endless sea of colors and convey a mental picture I never wanted to grasp. And it’s a color I was never fond of unless you sold Mary Kay and had earned the iconic pink Cadillac.  Then let's face it, who doesn't like a vehicle that's the color of bubble gum? That's pure joy.

Prior to my cancer diagnosis, honestly, the sight of pink ribbons caused me to see red because of their connection to the Susan G. Komen Foundation.  It’s not my intent to offend SGK fans, but ethically I can’t get behind any organization that gives a single cent to Planned Parenthood because of my stance against abortion.  If that bothers you, then this blog may not be for you, though you’re certainly welcome to stick around. All are welcome, even if pink is your absolute favorite color.

Since my cancer diagnosis, pink causes my grey matter to visualize unfavorable mammogram results, mastectomies, oncology appointments, blood work, scans, chemo, side effects, women who’ve lost their battle. Sadly, to me, pink and everything breast cancer related are forevermore synonymous. And that’s why when Joy is Contagious…Cancer Isn’t is released you won’t see any pink on the cover UNLESS the designers think it’s imperative to include SOME pink. Then, per my instructions, they’re allowed to use one. solitary. pink. flower. That will be for all the women who’ve embraced pink. For them, the color means research, approved and improved therapies, education, awareness, early detection, life-saving mammograms, ultrasounds, survival, and hope. Eventually, I believe I’ll consider those things too when I see pink and maybe it will be sooner rather than later.

Several months after my diagnosis I caved and ordered a pink ribbon decal for my car’s rear windshield. 

Surprisingly, my children warmed me to the idea because they didn’t share the same aversion to pink that I held and as soon as I told them I had breast cancer they started drawing pink ribbons everywhere. They drew pink ribbons on their school notebooks, homemade posters, and even on their hands with permanent marker. I figured if they had adopted this symbol of disease that gives so many others hope, then maybe I could open up to it…at least a little. So I got my decal and dutifully watched Youtube videos on how to properly apply it to glass.  I did a fairly good job if I do say so myself.

Next, in my small steps toward embracing pink, I plan to order a t-shirt – with a smidgen of pink - that supports breast cancer research. That’s not nearly as bold as driving an "all eyes on me!" pink Cadillac, but in my tainted Pretty in Pink new world, it’s a strong start.

I think this suits me well

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