One of my favorite things that has happened as a result of this blog is that I sometimes get opportunities to talk and listen to really smart, passionate people who aren’t afraid to tackle big challenges.
Such was the case last month when I got to join a conference call with Michelle Whitlock and Dr. Marie Sevard.
I have more notes from that call than you can shake a stick at. I won’t risk losing you by going on and on about all the information I got that not only opened my eyes, but radically changed my opinion on the HPV vaccination.
What I will do is tell you that Michelle has an almost unbelievable story (if I hadn’t heard it from her own lips I might question it) about being diagnosed with and surviving cervical cancer (kicking it’s ass really). Dr. Marie is so full of information I could have listened to her for days. Together, they were promoting the Pearls of Wisdom campaign which is an effort to educate women about Cervical Cancer and HPV– the virus that has been linked to the disease. You can go here or click on the beautiful pearl picture of the pearl pin that come with the pledge on the sidebar over there and learn more about both the disease and the HPV test that we need to make sure we demand in order to help prevent it.
I will leave you with this, Michelle was 26 when she was diagnosed. She had normal pap smears always. Still think you don’t need to click and read? Plus, they’re giving away pearls. What more can you ask for? Take the pledge and then spread the word.
P.S. Looking for more parenting guidance and tips for self-care? Check out From Chaos to Calm a guided training to help you feel better in this tough season.
Good for you for spreading the word about this. Cervical cancer is very serious and young women need to know more about it. Unfortunately the 27 year old sister of a good friend of mine wasn't informed early enough and just passed away 2 days before Xmas after only fighting it for 2 months.
I took the pledge too! Great post!