Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

By Scott Mims | Community Columnist

As you may already know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and one of the sayings you will see in logos for the event is “early detection saves lives.” This could not be closer to the truth.

As I read the recent article in The Clanton Advertiser about local survivor Heather Baker, I was reminded—as I have been reminded time and time again—that life can turn on a dime, and tomorrow is not guaranteed for any of us. Fortunately for Baker, her commitment to doctors’ advice to get regular screenings paid off. It is always cause for celebration when we learn that someone has defeated this enemy and that they can truly call themselves a survivor.

Just this week, I was interviewing the director of a nonprofit organization about an upcoming event, and she shared with me her story of battling breast cancer. Hers was a rare, aggressive form of cancer that does not always show up on mammograms; in fact, it can show up in your skin. Fortunately, her prognosis is good.

In addition to preventive measures and regular screenings, another way we can fight breast cancer or any form of cancer is to donate to the American Cancer Society. This month, I am trying to raise awareness for the organization by taking a photo a day throughout the month of October and sharing it on Facebook. Each photo is shared on a special fundraiser page where people can donate to ACS. If you wish to donate, you may do so at Donate.cancer.org.

I long for the day that we don’t have to worry about this disease, when a true cure is found that will be made available to everyone. In today’s cynical world, some might not believe that this is possible, but I try to keep the faith. Meanwhile, if you know someone battling this disease now, please support them through prayer, encouragement, make a donation in their name, and by simply spreading awareness.