50 &Fabulous

Last summer I reached half a century, or more simply put 50. I was very blessed to start celebrating early in the summer even though I am an August baby. Then to my surprise, my husband threw me a party and for those who do not know me, I am not one for surprises or for being the centre of attention. I have to admit, I was very humbled seeing so many friends all in one venue celebrating me. I am forever grateful.

In good old me fashion, last summer was spent celebrating the big 5-0, on more than one occasion with both family and friends. I have always said my birthday is not just a day but a month long celebration. Then reality kinda set in. In the fall I received letters from the Ministry of Health for both a Mammogram and Colon Check. Full disclosure, I was very stressed about my first mammogram, after finding out my cousin was battling cancer. For years I have always had negative results when it came to my cervical exam, but I had no idea what to expect since I had never had a mammogram.

I immediately made an appointment, as I just wanted to get the exam over with. Weeks later there I was with a technician from Newfoundland who quickly put my mind at ease when she took my cupcakes and made them into crepes! The next thing I knew I was asked to get dressed, but reminded that I may have to get an ultra sound if the technician needed a further more precise image. Oh goodness, one more thing to have to wait for. Well less than three weeks later I received a letter with negative results! I was so relieved. I also learned that our breast are categorized from fatty ( A type) to very dense ( D type). Who knew?

Just when I thought I could relax my doctor wanted to see me about a colon check. Ugh, I really did not want to go through a full colonoscopy, but that would be up to my doctor. Upon arriving, my blood pressure was taken and my weight. Shoot, I should not have had such a big lunch. LOL! In the exam room, it was just a nice visit to go over what it means to turn 50. Just about the same time she updated me with my tetanus shot. She suggested I get a FIT test done which simply means I mail a poop sample. Easy enough, except for the fact there would be a postal strike in the not so near future which would slow down my results. Still waiting! I have never been so interested in poop before.

During our chat she suggested I get my shingles shot and advised me, that if I wanted my pneumonia shot, then she would give me a prescription. Shingles and pneumonia shots, I always thought those were for old people. Blood work and an EKG later, it seems that all things are pointing to 50 and healthy!

These past few months have made me realize that turning 50 is not so much about getting older, as it is being proactive about my health and being grateful for being in good health. Yes it can be scary going through various cancer screenings, but early detection is never a bad thing. With that said, I can now enjoy my year being healthy, 50 & fabulous!