Why we're all a little bit pink today

Today, across the motu, people pulled on something pink, made far too many mini muffins, and gathered for a Pink Ribbon Breakfast. And honestly? We're here for it.

If your feed is a sea of pink this morning, here's the why behind it. Pink Ribbon Breakfasts raise money for the Breast Cancer Foundation NZ - funding research, education, and support for the roughly 3,400 women diagnosed in Aotearoa every year. That's not a small number. That's someone's mum, someone's aunty, someone's big sister. Possibly someone you'd lend your favourite dress to.

Now, if you're in our usual crowd, you might be thinking this isn't really about me yet. And fair. Free national screening (the mammogram kind) starts at 45 in NZ, so you've got time before that's on your radar. But "not yet" isn't the same as "nothing to do."

Here's the bit that actually matters at our age: get to know your normal. Everyone's body is different, and the whole point is that you know what's usual for you ... so if something changes, you notice. A new lump, a change in shape or skin, anything that feels off. You don't need to panic-Google it at 2am. You just need to go see your GP and get it checked. Most of the time it's nothing. But "most of the time" is exactly why checking is worth it.

"Knowing your normal isn't a chore                                             - it's a flex"

And then there's the women you love who are old enough to screen. Be the nudge. Text your mum. Remind your aunty. "Have you booked your mammogram?" is possibly the least glamorous text you'll send all year, and possibly the most important. Free screening runs 45 to 74 now — so there's no excuse and no cost, just a two-yearly appointment that genuinely saves lives.

So yes ... wear the pink today. Donate if you can. Eat the muffin. But maybe also have the slightly awkward conversation, do the small check-in, send the text. Looking after the women in your life, including future you, never goes out of style.

love M