I needed to take the time to make my opinion known about a controversy that has arisen through the political scene. I would not normally do this but this hits very close to home for me. As someone who was diagnosed with HPV and has had ongoing cervical issues, first 18 years ago, and then again for 3 out of the last 4 years, I am disheartened by anyone who speaks out against a preventive vaccine. I firmly believe that it is our duty as parents to protect our children in anyway we can. To the best of my knowledge, this is the first vaccine available that has been shown to protect against a virus that causes certain types of cancer. It is time for people to get some courage and speak out, this is not a taboo subject. Yes, HPV is sexually transmitted, and I ask, how many of you are celibate? Studies show that a very large percentage of all women will at some time in their lives contract this virus, which also means that a large percentage of men will also. The greatest thing is the vaccine is now available for both boys and girls. If this had been available when I was young it would have saved me numerous surgeries, the emotional stress, and ongoing fear of living with this virus.
As you all know cancer is a cause I take to heart, I do what I do because I can, so many people cannot. Please watch the video, I ride for many reasons, cancer being one of them. I have lost a Grandfather, 2 Aunts, an Uncle, and a Sister to this disease. I have a sister who holds my hand in survivorship. I want to know that there will be a day when my grandchildren are reading about cancer in a history book, not experiencing it first hand.
