October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort has been tickled pink about it.
Marine Corps Community Services has held a series of events called Think Pink, including: a cake cutting ceremony, pumpkin carving con¬test, several pink walks, an outdoor zumba class, bowling night and warrior challenges, to raise awareness and prevent breast cancer.
“We’re raising awareness. It’s important because so many women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year,” said Kathy “Mama” Williams, Semper Fit health promotions coordinator and breast cancer survivor. “The quicker you can catch something, the faster you can get medical help and the better your chances are of overcoming that cancer or any type of disease.”
Williams’ personal experience with breast cancer drove home the fact that your health has nothing to do with your ability to get cancer.
“In my personal case there was no family history,” Williams said.
Regardless, Williams took all the necessary precautions.
“At age 40, I had my first mammogram,” she said. “I exercise, I eat right, I did all the right things. Sometimes it just happens.
“It’s very important that we get those breast exams. Start at age 40,” she suggested. I had my first one at age 40. At 41, I found out I had breast cancer. So it’s very important that we do that and we encourage people to take care of themselves.”
Females of all ages should learn about breast cancer, suggested Williams.
Efforts have been made all month to educate individuals on breast cancer awareness and prevention. However, prevention should not be limited to a yearly check; efforts should be practiced monthly for proper prevention.
“You’re never too young to learn how to take care of yourself,” Williams concluded.