TROY, Ala. (TROJANVISION) — Breast cancer survivors shared their stories with Troy University students.
Last Tuesday, Trojans in Pink and the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority hosted a panel for survivors to share their journeys of beating breast cancer.
“It can be emotional going through that time frame,” said Dr. Shabrell Parker, breast cancer survivor. “Being able to share my story with someone else in hopes of saving a life, maybe ten, or a thousand.”
Parker also says that it is important to keep an eye on your health and be your own advocate, even if you are unlikely to develop breast cancer.
“I say advocate for yourself,” Parker said. “I didn’t think I would; get yourself checked because early detection is key now. Let’s make a plan so we can beat it!”
According to the American Cancer Society, it states that one in eight women will be likely to develop breast cancer at some point in their lives.
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Survivor Shamerra Moultry added whether or not breast cancer runs in your family, it is suggested to stay in contact with your primary physician and engage in regular examinations.
“If they see anything that warns you to get checked for something that could be related to breast cancer, they will shoot you in the right direction.”
While a diagnosis can be discouraging, Moultry provided hope to those who face it.
“Life puts on this persona that everything’s good and it’s not always that way,” Moultry said. “Get support, get help, and make sure your voice is known.
“It’s okay to not be okay.”
Even when people celebrate about beating cancer, the journey to recovery can often times be misunderstood. Parker gives us insight into the following main misconception surrounding the aftermath.
“The first misconception I believe is that once you have gone through the process and getting it cleared it’s all over,” Parker said. “Unfortunately, that is the furthest thing from the truth.”
“When being diagnosed with cancer, it is a huge battle you have to face mentally, emotionally, and even spiritually.”
Although we are approaching to the final days of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it is never too late to think pink!
