JSU joins the fight against breast cancer with various activities

Alexis Anderson
Associate Editor

During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, many individuals at Jackson State University join the fight to encourage prevention, detection, and treatment for breast cancer patients as well as survivors.

The JSU Welcome Center presented a Breast Cancer Awareness Seminar on Oct. 22, 2013. Tracie Wade, the guest speaker and a STRIDES Recruiter for the American Cancer Society thinks that raising awareness about breast cancer will help patients to be better equipped to fight back against the disease.

“Breast Cancer is the most common cancer that women may face in their lifetime. It can occur at any age, but the risk goes up for women over the age of 40. Because of certain factors, some women may have a greater chance of having breast cancer than others. But every woman should know about breast cancer and what can be done to cure it,” said Wade.

She added: “October is a busy month for the American Cancer Society; we strive to recognize every cancer patient and to celebrate their successful trials of surviving one of the deadliest diseases in America. I lost my aunt and grandmother to the disease, so this month is personal and special to me.”

Wade indicated that the American Cancer Society helps the lives of people fighting cancer every day. The American Cancer Society helps people find answers to their questions about breast cancer by calling 1-800-227-2345 and visiting cancer.org, having transportation for cancer patients who need to receive treatment, and by raising funds to research for new treatment options and potential cancer breakthroughs.
Wade also talked about the importance of conducting self breast exams, annual doctor appointments, and mammograms. Breast exams should be conducted either by a doctor or nurse every three years for women in their 20’s and 30’s, and every year for women over 40. Self breast exams are also very important for women and knowing how their breast normally looks and feels will help in early detection by reporting any changes to a doctor right away.

Gwen Caples, the director of the JSU Welcome Center thought the seminar was informative and helpful for JSU but also the community.

“It’s important for JSU to participate this month by showing interest and care to the community. Our speaker was knowledgeable about breast cancer awareness and gave advice that could possibly save someone’s life. I appreciate the University for having events to inform people about protecting themselves and staying healthy. It’s a great way of giving back. It is vital for students to learn the information about breast cancer for them to stay educated,” said Caples.

Bertha Bass, a JSU Library assistant felt the seminar touched on many important issues and resources.
“I am glad that I decided to attend the event because my mother has problems going to the doctor due to transportation issues. I am enlightened that the American Cancer Society has initiatives to give people a lending hand that need it. That is a very important aspect to remember if you are a cancer patient, to know you are well taken care of no matter the age, finances, etc,” said Bass.

The American Cancer Society will host a 5k Non-competitive fundraising walk on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2013. Registration will begin at the Mississippi State Capitol on the south steps at 8:00 a.m. with an opening ceremony at 9:00 a.m.

The JSU Cheerleaders are also doing their part to raise money for the Susan G. Komen Foundation. The cheerleaders are currently raffling off a JSU gift basket for $2 a ticket. You can purchase the tickets from any JSU Cheerleader for the drawing which will be held on Nov. 15, 2013. The basket includes JSU paraphenelia, gift items and two JSU basketball season tickets.

The JSU NAACP will host a NAACPink Forum on Friday, Oct. 25th at 5 p.m. in the Student Center Ballroom B.
“This event will be different in the sense that we will not only be raising awareness, but we will also be allowing the students to share their personal struggle or story with breast cancer. We want to give our student body the abililty to share with us as we do with them, versus them sitting through a forum and not truly leaving with something they didn’t come with,” said Ariana Stokes, a junior history education major from Chicago, Ill. and NAACP member.

The Student Athlete Advisory Committee will host a “Think Pink” Volleyball game on Oct. 30th in the Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center at 7 p.m. The match-up against Alabama A&M University will include the opportunity to show support of the cause and fight against breast cancer. JSU warriors and survivors of breast cancer will be honored during pre-game festivities.