Today we remember a third century martyr. It is easy for these stories to seem so far removed and different from anything we experience that we feel no real connection. One more stature —One more painting
For 2013 the estimates in the US are:
* About 232,340 new cases of invasive breast cancer in women
* About 64,640 new cases of carcinoma in situ (CIS) will be found (CIS is non-invasive and is the earliest form of breast cancer).
*About 39,620 deaths from breast cancer (women)
Imagine the worldwide numbers.
St. Agatha is the patron saint for all these women because of the many tortures she endured, the one that was not only the most physically, but also emotionally damaging was having her breasts cut off. Even as I write this I know that as a man I cannot fully understand impact having breasts removed has on a woman.
While our treatments have vastly improved, it is still traumatic, and there are far to many places where treatments, and supports are unavailable to the women in need
Today we turn to St. Agatha for her intercession for all the survivors, those struggling, and those who have yet to be diagnosed with breast cancer, may she be their constant support.
