By Amber Bass
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual campaign to increase awareness of the disease. Though most people are aware of breast cancer, many forget that early detection is most important. The members of the Clay Women’s Club hope to raise awareness and remember those battling and those lost to breast cancer. Lou Chandler presided over the ceremony held at the new courthouse. “Awareness and detection is key. The NFL and other big names are bringing attention to this cause on a national level, we are conveying the message locally” stated Chandler.
Guest speakers were Jerry Linkinogger and Arlene Tucker of the Clay County Commission and Melinda Issacs, principal of Clay County High School. Issacs, a survivor of the disease, shared memories of three loved ones lost. At the conclusion, a wreath was placed on the courthouse and will remain there throughout the month.
The national cancer institute states that when detected early, in the localized stage, the five year survival rate is 98%. For more information visit http://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-awareness-month or ask your physician about prevention.
