Breast Cancer Awareness in October: My Wellness Journey Through Perimenopause and Prevention
- Maaike Del Villar
- Oct 1
- 3 min read
At age 45, I felt my first sign that something was changing in my body—breast pain. At the time, I didn’t know this was a symptom of perimenopause, and I had no idea how much this season of life would shape me. In my family and circle of friends, menopause was rarely spoken about.
The subtle fear that this pain could be linked to breast cancer is what first sparked my journey into wellness and Breast Cancer Awareness.

My First Step Toward Wellness
I’ve always leaned toward natural approaches—homeopathy, herbs, and food—but this pain felt like it needed something stronger. That’s when a friend shared an essential oil that supported me through both the breast pain and night sweats. Honestly, it felt like I had won the lottery! I wanted to tell everyone what I had found.
That was 13 years ago. Today, I understand so much more about the woman’s body, how estrogen plays a role in perimenopause and menopause, and the impact these changes have on our health. Over the years, I’ve also listened to stories of friends—and friends’ mothers—who faced breast cancer. Many have survived, but their journeys remind me how deeply Breast Cancer Awareness matters.
What I Learned About Toxins and Women’s Health
One of the first lessons I learned was how much toxins affect our health. Chemicals in perfumes, skincare, household cleaners, and laundry products may seem harmless, but they can mimic estrogen in the body and disrupt our cells. Over time, this disruption can lead to problems most women don’t even connect to the products they use every day.
Once I understood this, I made a decision: to ditch and switch. I replaced toxic products with safer alternatives for both my home and my body. The results were clear—my skin improved, my energy lifted, and my overall health has remained strong. To this day, I rarely get sick (knock on wood!).
Making this change is one of the many reasons I’m so passionate about Breast Cancer Awareness—because prevention begins with the choices we make daily.
Why Breast Cancer Awareness Matters
What is it?
Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast tissue divide at an abnormal rate.
80% of breast cancers begin in the mammary ducts.
Breast cancer can metastasize, meaning it can spread to other parts of the body.
Why care?
1 in 8 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.
It can occur in both men and women, though it is far more common in women.
Risk factors include family history, certain genetic mutations, and lifestyle factors.
Be proactive!
Early detection saves lives. Mammograms and screenings increase treatment options and survival rates.
When caught in its earliest stages, the 5-year survival rate is 99%.
Prevention also matters: reducing toxic load, supporting wellness, and choosing a healthier lifestyle are powerful steps we can all take.
My Mission for Safer Homes
I believe we are all responsible for our own health and for inspiring wellness in those around us. One simple way to begin is by reducing toxic load—and that’s why I love sharing about the Wellness Shop Club.
This company, recently named by USA TODAY as one of America’s most trusted brands in 2025, offers safer, healthier alternatives for everyday living. By referring friends and family, I know I’m helping create safer homes, providing better options, and supporting families in building stability.
For me, this isn’t just shopping. It’s a lifestyle, a community, and a mission to enhance lives. And during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it feels even more meaningful. enhance lives.
Final Thought
Breast Cancer Awareness isn’t just about October—it’s about choosing wellness daily. My journey began with breast pain, led me to essential oils, inspired me to ditch toxins, and today fuels my mission to empower other women.
This month, I invite you to reflect on your own health. Take one action: schedule your screening, swap one product, share your knowledge. Small choices create ripple effects for our families and communities.
Together, we can build safer homes, healthier bodies, and brighter futures.
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