In the fight against breast cancer, local survivors agree on one thing — don’t leave your health chance. Early detection is a vital part of winning the battle to recovery.

Marie Moore Owens, an employee at First Citizens Bank in Greenville, is currently navigating a breast cancer diagnosis. Because her mother faced breast cancer twice, Owens has had annual screenings — MRIs and mammograms — which led to early detection of cancer, something that might have otherwise gone unnoticed and untreated.

Irene Bandy, a resident of White Hall, faced breast cancer twice, in 1987 and again in 2000. She elected to have a mastectomy with each diagnosis and the surgery, coupled with early detection, ensured her cancer-free diagnosis.

According to a report by Dr. Banu Arun with the MD Anderson Cancer Center, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. And, while Arun said there is no guaranteed way to prevent breast cancer, awareness and regular screenings can help to reduce the risk.

Lillian Wilson is a Crenshaw County resident who, along with her husband John, co-owns Food Depot in Luverne and Superfoods in Greenville. A 2008 survivor of colorectal cancer, Wilson underwent a biopsy screen and subsequent double mastectomy this past August.  

Focusing on her recovery and her family are a priority, Wilson told The Greenville Advocate. Early detection and regular screenings are a part of ensuring she has many more years to spend with the ones she loves.

Each year, The Greenville Advocate focuses on Breast Cancer Awareness in October and features the stories of survivors who were proactive with their health. We urge our communities to be aware of cancer risks and to have regular screenings to reduce the risks of a cancer diagnosis.