Yesterday marked the one year anniversary of the death of my friend Susan Maslen from breast cancer (and related complications).  Aside from the fact that this disease took my friend at way too early an age (44), it's just a pretty nasty disease that has no cure - yet.  Did you know:

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women. 

This year, almost 200,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in this country, 60,000 women will be diagnosed with in situ (early stage) breast cancer , and over 40,000 will die from breast cancer.

At 43, I have a one in 70 chance of developing breast cancer in the next seven years.   (*American Cancer Society, Surveillance Research, 2007)  I wish the lottery odds were that good.

Things that can help reduce one's risk of developing breast cancer - weight management,  regular physical activity and minimizing alcohol intake.  Hopefully I do enough of the first two to overcome the third....A recent study revealed that 2 drinks per day on a regular basis can increase breast cancer risk by 21%.  YIKES.

The bottom line is, this disease sucks and every woman should know the facts.  Check out cms.komen.org or the American Cancer Society's site for more info.  If you're over 40, GET THOSE MAMMOGRAMS!

Susan was an important presence in many lives.  She was driven, competitive, funny, bright and kind.  She was a great athlete and friend, and I miss her, especially as triathlon season begins.  Susan competed, and often did exceptionally well in triathlons WHILE she was undergoing non-stop chemo.  I don't think she knew what it was to slow down or God forbid, quit.  She was, and continues to be, an inspiration to me.