A Few Words of Caution

We are often so caught up in the bumps and bruises in our lives, that we tend to overlook the causes brewing within us. I am a nurse and a stage IV breast cancer survivor. Not only did I survive breast cancer, but so did my husband. I, thinking of myself as the victim, failed to see the pain and fatigue inflicted on him. So we, together made a decision to educate others to the subtle warning signs of cancer. We volunteer to speak at cancer events and recite this poem. To everyone reading the following poem, please read and listen to the words carefully, for our bodies do speak to us. Please the take the time to listen. Are you the person described int this poem?

Caution

Listen carefully women and men to what I have to say.
Stop, look, listen, proceed with caution, live life everyday
Sometimes our body speaks to us in a silent way--
We have no time to listen, so hopefully it will go away.
Do I take the time to notice that my bathroom habits have changed?
No, I did not take the time because my day is already arranged
I cut my finger a month ago with no healing in sight.
No, give it just a little more time, for surely it will be all right.
That little mole or freckle now changed and bleeding on my face
I'll cover it with a bandaid, it will soon vanish without a trace.
That blood on my undergarment was easily disregarded
I'll check on it later, my day has already started.
That thickness or lump in my breast, one month ago was not there
What the heck, I'll check it next month, for I am sure it will disappear
Indigestion for weeks now, but this too can wait
For I am sure it was that spicy food that I ate
That mole on my face, now obviously changed in color
I won't to go the doctor, for it will cost a few dollars.
Now what about that old nagging cough
It's just a little cold, I'll soon shake it off.
Caution, my friends is the word to remember
Place in your repertoire, use it January through December.
Such a small word, but has so much meaning
If this description fits you, see your doctor for a screening.
Whatever you do, don't fear the unknown
For the life you save may be your own.

By Barbara Latten

Barbara Latten, author. In loving memory of my brother Louis, and sisters Tina and Katherine, who lost their battle with cancer.