"You have breast cancer" are words that turn a woman’s spine to ice. Breast cancer is a major cause of death among women in South Africa.
More women die each year from breast cancer than from any other type of cancer, including even cervical cancer which was once the number one killer among the cancers and a worrying trend is the increase in breast cancer among African women.
But breast cancer need not be a death sentence. Early detection and treatment can ensure that the sufferer lives a long and productive life. Mammograms, for instance, can detect tumours up to two years before breast examinations, thus providing more options for treatment.
There are also some superb support groups to help women through this trying period. One of these is Reach for Recovery, a comprehensive non-medical programme created to help women with breast cancer.
It is a self-help group based on the premise that former breast cancer patients, now physically and emotionally healthy, can relate in a unique and positive way to new patients with breast cancer.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge at Old Parktonians on October 14 is dedicated to promoting breast cancer awareness, with proceeds from the race going to this very worthy cause.
Thousands of women take part in the Challenge or the 5km Fun Run every year, and among them are many women who have fought and conquered breast cancer.
Perhaps you might find yourself running or walking alongside one of these women. Talk to her and listen to her story – these women are invariably inspirational in their attitude to life and to the disease they fought off.
Pink ribbons will be distributed at the race for you to show solidarity with the cancer sufferers, and to promote awareness of a disease which, if caught early, can be beaten.
Entry forms are available from all SPAR, SUPERSPAR and KWIKSPAR stores or online at the SPAR website . Enter now and do your bit for breast cancer awareness.
(0 rating, 0 votes, rated)
Loading...
