C2 Friday, Oct. 17, 2014 | STRENGTH & MOTIVATION | www.kentuckynewera.com

What’s Inside: PINK RIBBON NETWORK

Survivor tells story of recovery C3 Cerulean woman has a new lease on life after beating cancer.

Mom commits to cheerfulness C4 Mom of twins fights through chemo and a mas- tectomy but holds on to her sense of humor.

NEW ERA FILE PHOTO Cali Newton, a 17-year-old Heritage Christian Academy senior, planned and organized a benefit fashion show called Runway Pink to raise money for the Pink Rib- bon Network, hugs Ann Isom after being surprised with a $1,000 scholarship from the Pink Ribbon Network. Family navigates life without dad C6 Church steps up to support family in financial Network supports cancer patients need following death of father and husband.

BY MARGARITA CAMBEST United Methodist Church Hopkinsville a case by case basis. Snacks and gifts are NEW ERA STAFF WRITER to share stories, get advice and referrals also provided for breast cancer patients and listen to guest speakers. at Western State Hospital. The group Karen Wheeler was diagnosed with “We just try to make the individual also gathers to attend special events in breast cancer in 2008. feel loved and cared for because when the community and beyond. To fight the cancer, she had a lumpec- you have any kind of cancer it’s going to “After going through this ourselves, tomy, a process where a surgeon re- be very stressful. It just so happens that we find it very rewarding and uplifting moves the cancer and surrounding all of our group has had breast cancer to be able to provide outreach to oth- lymph nodes to preserve the breast. and we can all kind of relate to each ers,” reads an excerpt from the mission Wheeler has now been cancer-free for other and through the things that statement. Although members might be five years, something she says was made they’re going through,” Wheeler said. different in their surgeries or treat- Local girl combatting brain cancer C7 easier with the support of the Pink Rib- “We’re not trying to be doctors or any- ment, they all have the journey in com- bon Network, a local nonprofit that pro- 11-year-old diagnosed with aggressive cancer thing like that. We’re just trying to relay mon. vides support for cancer patients and has to undergo chemotherapy. our personal experience.” The Pink Ribbon Network holds meet- survivors. The group also collects contributions ings at 7 p.m. on the first Thursday of “Five years — that’s a big goal that which go to distributing support bags, each month at First United Methodist you reach.” providing snacks at the E.C. Green Can- Church Hopkinsville, 1305 S. Main St. The Pink Ribbon Network has sup- cer Center for patients going through ported many members through their chemotherapy, transportation to and REACH MARGARITA CAMBEST at 270-887-3231 goals. from appointments, and supporting the or [email protected]. Members meet monthly at First special needs of individual patients on

Sisters cope with diagnoses C9 History of the Pink Ribbon Tests lead to diagnoses for both women. They are now advocates of early detection. Origin of the Ribbon The peach colored ribbon of Next, Penney learned it was im- ABCs of life after cancer C9 Hayley aroused interest from practical to pin a ribbon onto The ribbon is a symbol used to Alexandra Penney, editor in each cover of Self , as she had Clarksville YMCA offers free 16-week program connote awareness and support. chief of Self magazine, who was hoped, so she called Evelyn for breast cancer patients and survivors. It had its origins in the yellow working on Self magazine’s 1992 Lauder, of Estee Lauder Compa- ribbon used in the early to mid- How to talk to the doctor C10 National Breast Cancer Aware- nies to ask for help. “Lets give 1900s in a United States military ness Month issue. She saw the these out at Estee Lauder coun- Risk, testing and lifestyle are important sub- marching song. Then the song initiative to adapt to Hayley’s ters,” was her enthusiastic jects to bring up with your physician. “Tie a Yellow Ribbon” inspired idea by working with her. But response. Penney Laingen, the wife of one Hayley rejected the offer saying A few months later, Self maga- Oncologist discusses options C10 of the hostages held in Iran from that Self ’s initiative was too zine, which was planning its sec- Many breast cancer patients consider 1979–1981, to use the yellow rib- commercial. ond annual National Breast lumpectomy over mastectomy. bon to show support for her hus- Cancer Awareness Month issue, band and other hostages and to with Evelyn Lauder, senior cor- Healthy habits to lower risk C10 remind others of their plight. The Pink Ribbon symbol porate vice president at Estee Her family and friends joined her First on the scene was the Lauder, as guest editor, decided to Lifestyle changes can impact chances of in her efforts and today Ameri- Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer create a ribbon that would be dis- eventually getting cancer. cans continue to use this symbol Foundation. Komen had been tributed at the company’s cos- as a powerful reminder of the handing out bright pink visors to metics counters across the men and women who are serving breast cancer survivors running country. At first, according to our country abroad. in its Race for the Cure since late Fernandez, the magazine ap- A decade later, when AIDS ac- 1990. In fall 1991, mere months proached Haley asking her to tivists looked at the yellow rib- after Irons’ electrifying appear- work with them on the plan and, bons that had been resurrected ance, the foundation gave out for soldiers fighting the Gulf War as part of the deal, relinquish the pink ribbons to every participant concept of the ribbon. Haley re- and said, “What about something in its New York City race. This for our boys dying here at fused, claiming (correctly as it first use of the ribbon, though, turns out) that she feared the home?” The activist art group Vi- was for Komen just a detail in the sual AIDS turned the ribbon commercialization of her ap- larger and more important story proach, and so Self, in consulta- Local athletes support awareness C11 bright red—”because it’s the of the race. To really break out, color of passion”—looped it, tion with its lawyers, settled on a Christian County students wear pink and raise the pink ribbon would need a sit- different color: Pink. funds in support of breast cancer awareness. spruced it up and sent it onto the uation in which the ribbon was national stage during the Tony the event. Lawmakers push for assistance C11 awards pinned to the chest of It is not surprising, given their An international movement actor Jeremy Irons. commitment to breast cancer Medical study supports argument for including Ribbons had arrived. Breast cancer awareness cancers on list of WTC-linked diseases. marketing, that the Susan J. Overnight, every charitable Komen Breast Cancer Founda- started to grow, more and more Tips for proactive breast health C12 cause had to have one. After just tion was the first breast cancer organizations started to incorpo- a short time, they were so ubiq- organization to latch on to the rate the pink ribbon as the sym- Staying ahead of the game could make all of uitous that The New York Times bol for breast cancer. In October the difference. idea by distributing pink ribbons declared 1992 “The Year of the to every participant in its New 6th, 1997 American citizen Paul Ribbon.” York City Race for the Cure (they Davidson registered pinkrib- Do stem cells fuel tumors? C12 also, later, tried unsuccessfully to bon.com and launched a website Cancer debate returns with new studies. trademark the ribbon). directed to and available for all The original ribbon people in the world engaged with Pharmacist creates medicine C12 Charlotte Hayley, who had bat- breast cancer, The website was New meds improve quality of life for women. tled breast cancer, introduced the Coming to America dedicated to raising awareness concept of a peach coloured The cosmetics industry got on and funding for breast cancer. Delaware first lady reflects C13 breast cancer awareness ribbon. board in 1991 to promote breast In 2008, the initiative was ex- She attached them to cards say- cancer awareness with the help tended and expanded creating Breast cancer patient was told to treat it like a the non profit network Pink Rib- full-time job and fights it even in remission. ing, “The National Cancer Insti- of Evelyn Lauder of Estée tute’s annual budget is 1.8 billion Lauder Cosmetics and Alexander bon Inc. in New York. The objec- Be My Support photos C14 US dollars, and only 5 percent Penney, the editor-in-chief of tives were defined and the idea Women’s Show hosted bra contest to support goes to cancer prevention. Help SELF magazine. When Evelyn launched of an international Relay for Life. us wake up our legislators and Lauder and Alexander Penney charity platform for breast can- America by wearing this rib- were working on their breast cer awareness and funding Survivor writes to support C15 bon.” cancer awareness promotion, (awareness, advocacy, alliances, Author uses talent to encourage others. Haley was strictly grassroots, they liked Charlotte Hayley’s alignment and accreditation). handing the cards out at the local concept of giving ribbons to pro- Throughout the years this ini- Returning to normalcy C15 supermarket and writing promi- mote the support of breast can- tiative has grown into the inter- Going back to work can be helpful to recovery nent women, everyone from for- cer awareness. Lauder, Penney, national platform as we know it for many patients. mer First Ladies to Dear Abby. and Hayley worked together to today, covering more than 30 Her message spread by word of come up with the pink ribbon countries over 5 continents. Prostate test advice C15 mouth. Haley distributed thou- symbol for breast cancer PSA screening no longer recommended to be sands of these cards. awareness. — Courtesy of Pink Ribbon International part of routine screening for healthy men. www.kentuckynewera.com | STRENGTH & MOTIVATION | Friday, Oct. 17, 2014 C3 Sandy Adams lives life on new lease

BY MEREDITH WILLSE NEW ERA STAFF WRITER Missing pieces? Adams still goes in for checkups every Sandy Adams is a survivor, but it wasn’t four months. easy for her to get to this point. As a precaution, she also had her other The 44-year-old Cerulean woman’s life breast removed. While Adams can’t get was turned upside down in 2001 when her cancer in her breasts again, it could resur- doctor diagnosed her with stage-four face elsewhere, and that fear is still very much alive in her. breast cancer. She was too young, and did- There could be one, little cell hidden in n’t have a family history of cancer her body waiting, she says, just waiting to For her and her family, it was the worst strike up and form a colony. news they could have heard. She said that was one reason she chose Since the diagnosis, though, Adams has not to get reconstructive surgery: She beat the cancer back and lived for over a feared her breasts might turn on her decade. This is her story. again. Still, she says, there are times she doesn’t feel quite whole. The diagnosis Knowing her breasts were just body As Adams tells her story of survival, it parts, she looks in the mirror sometimes, begins with her waking up one morning in but it still doesn’t feel quite right. She 2001 and feeling a pea-sized lump. She set knows the cancer in her breast could have up an appointment with her doctors, who killed her and doesn’t want them back, but couldn’t feel the lump, and sent her home. still she feels just a little bit off. Eventually the lump grew to the size of a walnut; then her doctors found it. By the time the lump could be biopsied, it had bal- A promise kept? looned to the size of a golf ball. MEREDITH WILLSE | KENTUCKY NEW ERA While Adams has remained cancer free, This all happened in just a few short the disease would pop up in her family months. Sandy Adams survived stage-four breast cancer, but secretly she wonders if prayer and her father’s love didn’t again, but this time with more deadly con- To make things worse, the doctor who di- play a huge role in her beating back the disease. Since being diagnosed and undergoing a mastectomy, sequences. agnosed her lacked bedside manner. When Adams had her other breast removed as a precaution. The family started to notice Adams’ fa- he broke the bad news, Adams was alone tory of it on either side of her family that “little blue Smurf.” ther had symptoms similar to mini strokes in the examination room and the out-of- four years ago. His wife scheduled an ap- county physician walked in and bluntly she knew of. She didn’t quite believe it until she saw She was the first, but unfortunately pointment to have him checked out, and to stated, “You know you have cancer, right?” her urine turn blue. the family’s horror, they were struck by Adams remembers her world came to a wouldn’t be the last. For Adams, that came as quite the the cancer diagnosis again, but this time it screeching stop. Still, she quickly started treatment, un- shock. was brain cancer. She said she felt like she had been hit by dergoing eight rounds of chemo therapy Just before she went into the operating Adams father had a tumor that butter- a bag of bricks and had to get a second and then 42 more rounds of chemo. She room in 2002 — a year after being diag- flied out in the frontal lobe, and he died opinion, just to be sure. took all of those treatments and just sol- nosed — the surgeon, Dr. VanMeter, asked about a year after his daignosis. diered her way through it. Once more, she was told it was stage-four Adams, “Do you have anyone praying for For Adams, it seems like her dad did breast cancer. The chemo made her feel sick, with what he said — took the cancer away. symptoms worse than the flu. you?” When it came time for the radiation, she “Yes,” she said. “I have a whole waiting Too young had a deep ache in her joints and remem- room full.” Helping others bers there was a day she couldn’t even turn She asked why, and Dr. VanMeter said At 32 years old, Adams was too young for her head. he’d tell her later. Now, Adams just wants to help people. that kind of diagnosis. Adams took each day as it came. It was Her message to other women diagnosed Most women diagnosed with breast can- the only way she could get through it and with cancer is simple: We are out there cer are much older than she was, and it she had to keep going, if only for her The why and you are not alone. was a hard pill to swallow. She was also a family. It turns out that, when they tested Adams said she mostly wants the read- single, working mom and had no idea She avoided the “what ifs” and tried to Adams’ cancer again, it had changed dra- ers to know that if they need support, they where she was supposed to go from there, keep them as far from her mind as possi- matically, going from stage four to stage will find it at Pink Ribbon Network. Any but she found support in the people she ble. She just couldn’t allow herself to think two. local doctor’s office should have the PRN’s loves most. about what would happen to her daughter The surgeon felt the miracle could be a cards and contact information, she added First, she told her parents, her fiancé, if she didn’t make it. result of all the people who were praying Adams didn’t join the PRN until three her daughter and her soon-to-be stepchil- Adams knew her parents would be there for her. years ago, but ever since, she has been dren. They were all equally crushed, espe- and they would take care of her daughter, Then things changed for the better, and helping as many people as she can. cially her father because she had always but still, she couldn’t allow herself to think Adams was all cleared of cancer shortly af- She hands out care bags to cancer pa- been daddy’s girl. like that. terward. She got married a year later, tients, usually breast cancer. The bags typ- Adams remembers her father tried to sporting the color pink in her flowers and hold back his emotions when she told him decorations. ically come with literature, a pillow to go about the cancer, but she could tell it was A big decision She jokes that pink was always her fa- under a patient’s arm after a mastectomy, the worst news he had ever heard. vorite color, and now she knows why. blankets and other goodies. After her doctors’ appointments, she She also breathes a sigh of relief every “If I could take this cancer away from had to sit down with her fiancé and figure Adams has been leading a full life since. you,” her dad told her, “I would.” She raised her daughter and three morning since she was told she was can- out if she should take the final step — a cer free in 2002. mastectomy. Her fiancé told her to do what stepchildren. She also joined the Pink Rib- Finding strength bon Network, in hopes of helping others For Adams, there are few things that can she had to do, and Adams agreed to un- who are going through the same thing she compare to waking up every morning Scientists have found a hereditary link dergo the procedure. was. knowing she’s free. for many woman diagnosed with the dis- One of the things Adams remembers Four years after the surgery, after saving ease, but for Adams, her diagnosis came as about it is being told the blue dye she had up, she celebrated being cancer free with REACH MEREDITH WILLSEat 270-887-3262 a shock because, in part, there was no his- to consume would make her look like a her family at Disney World. or [email protected].

PinkPink Up! Up!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and there is no better time to make an appointment with your physician and learn more about the disease. While there is no surefire way to prevent breast cancer, there are ways to reduce your risk of it. Stay on top of your health.

Honoring Women Of course, even with the best of precautions, breast cancer may occur. That is why early Affected by detection is so important. The earlier the disease is detected, the better the patients chance Breast Cancer... of survival.

Our wish is comfort on difficult days, smiles when sadness Stay on stop of your health, intrudes, rainbows to follow the clouds, laughter to kiss their lips, sunsets to warm their hearts, hugs when spirits sag, women of Kentucky! beauty for their eyes to see, friendship to brighten their being, faith so they can believe, confidence for when they doubt, courage to know themselves, patience to accept the truth and love to complete their lives.

Everyone here at Westate Construction is: Saluting survivors Encourage awareness WHITNEY JOHN WESTERFIELD TILLEY Remembering loved ones 3rd District State Senator 8th District State Representative

HIGHWAY HEAVY GENERAL Westate Construction, Inc. MYRON 4850 Lafayette Rd. DOSSETT 9th District State Representative Breast Hopkinsville, KY Cancer Awareness Month C4 Friday, Oct. 17, 2014 | STRENGTH & MOTIVATION | www.kentuckynewera.com

PHOTOS BY MEREDITH WILLSE Cheerful through cancer Breast cancer doesn’t keep Jaime Hutka down for long

BY MEREDITH WILLSE She was terrified at first, thinking cancer. She described how, shortly be- have had. They also bring her things NEW ERA STAFF WRITER about wanting to see her kids grow up. fore the surgery, she realized her arm such as a pink sequin hat and gift She found that she couldn’t hide her hurt when she tried to lift a jug of cards to help out. The people in her A stay-at-home Fort Campbell mom, emotions from her four-year-old twins, water. Now that the breast and lymph church, Hillcrest Baptist in Hop- Jaime Hutka, 40, was missing her twin Olivia and Trevor. In the beginning, nodes are gone, the bottom of her kinsville, have been bringing her food children as she prepared for her she would be crying one minute and bicep, underarm and half of her chest and helping clean her house. Her fa- fourth round of chemo Tuesday. De- angry the next, and the twins noticed. is numb. ther calls her up, jokes around and spite the circumstances, Hutka is com- When she finishes chemo she will be prays with her. Even her husband tries mitted to retaining her sense of starting radiation treatments, some- to help out any way he can. humor. Incomplete time after Christmas. Hutka was diagnosed with breast She had a mastectomy in August and cancer at the end of June. According has started the process of having her Family matters to her doctors, the cancer was brought breast reconstructed. She finished her Moving forward Meanwhile, the twins have a different on by estrogen and progesterone. fourth and final hard round of chemo Hutka realized she’s been craving kind of reaction to her new appear- Hutka never really thought about Tuesday. Following each dizzying some crazy things since getting treat- ance. Her daughter Olivia is a little having cancer before because no one round of chemo, she had to get shots. ment for cancer, almost feeling like frightened of her mom. She is scared in her family had been diagnosed with While the chemo made her nauseous she’s pregnant again. She started to because she knows her mom is really the disease. She also didn’t think it re- and tired, “the shot makes you hurt crave pizza, even though she doesn’t sick, and it shows more by Hutka’s hair ally happened to a lot of young women everywhere. even like loss. — until she found a lump. For like two pizza. But her son, Trevor, plays pranks on “I was sitting there, and I had an or three days Also, after his mom. He takes her hat and throws “Keep your positive it across the room, laughing. Olivia gets itch,” Hutka explained how she found I can’t even her first angry at him for this, but Hutka finds the lump, “and I itched and I said, ‘that move. It round of it hilarious. Her kids also take off her doesn’t feel right.’” hurts to attitude and humor, chemo, she She described the lump felt like a hat, rub and kiss her head. move. They craved Fritos. Due to her sickness, the twins are hard knot a little over two centimeters. bring you so Then she She decided to wait until after her currently spending some time at her close to because you have to craved baked parents’ home. She is happily waiting menstruation cycle because it could death, but Lays for the have something to do with it, but the for her kids to come visit around at the you don’t second one. end of October, in time for her to cele- lump didn’t go away. So she went to her die,” Hutka For the third doctor to get checked. The doctors said laugh through it, brate Halloween with them. Hutka al- said. “That’s round, she ready has their costumes picked out it was a “mobile,” so there wasn’t any- how you feel, craved Chee- thing for them to do at that time. and is planning on taking them trick- like you’re that’s all you can do.” tos. Hutka or-treating if she feels well enough. By the beginning of June, her doc- going to die, said that she tors decided that she should have a Hutka looks forward to a future with- but you ate them con- out cancer. She wants to buy a house mammogram, after some deliberation. don’t.” stantly, and with a big porch somewhere locally. The mammogram showed nothing, Jaime Hutka After she that was For now, while she is receiving her due to the density of her breasts. Her Mom lost her hair pretty much chemo, her husband comes along to doctors sent her to get an ultrasound, n and a breast, all she could keep her busy. where the radiologist found the lump she felt in- keep down at Hutka also had a message for her fel- had irregular lines. They performed a complete. She was missing what part the time. She also claims to eat a lot of low women. She wants them to be biopsy the next day. of what made her feel like a woman. chocolate pudding now. aware of their bodies because breast Two weeks later, Hutka was out of She wanted to get rid of any trace of Hutka has received a lot of help from cancer can hit you at any age, from town when she received a call from her cancer and be over with it, but once many people. She is grateful to the what she has seen. doctor. The doctor said they couldn’t the first breast was gone, it hit her. ladies in the Pink Ribbon Network. “Keep your positive attitude and tell her the diagnosis over the phone. Hutka also had 18 out of her 21 They’ve helped her through this and humor,” Hutka adds, “because you “I told them that I wasn’t coming lymph nodes taken out because they given her a chance at friendships she have to laugh through it, that’s all you home for a few weeks and that I became infected may not can do.” needed to know,” Hutka explained. “ I with needed to know.” REACH MEREDITH WILLSE at 270-887-3262 The doctor told her she had or [email protected]. been diagnosed with breast cancer. www.kentuckynewera.com | Friday, Oct. 17, 2014 C5

In the battle against breast cancer, early detection is a woman’s most powerful weapon. In fact, according to the National Cancer Institute, when breast cancer is detected in an early, localized stage, the five-year survival rate is 98 percent. That’s why it is so important for all women to make breast health awareness a regular part of their healthcare routine. Growing Awareness to Save Lives

mammogram can detect breast cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages, and many major health organizations recommend annual mammogram screenings for women beginning at age A40 . Experts also recommend clinical breast exams and breast self-exams to check for breast abnormalities on a regular basis. Any woman noticing unusual changes in her breasts should contact her healthcare provider immediately. Women of all ages should speak to their doctor about his or her personalized recommendations for breast cancer screening.

As we recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we remember the women who have lost their lives to the disease, and we voice our support for those in the fight of their lives.

Share the aware on Facebook and Twitter to show your support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October. Share Tweets and posts from facebook.com/nameorg or @nameorg to help save lives with important screening information, healthy lifestyle tips, early detection guidelines and more.

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KAT RUSSELL | KENTUCKY NEW ERA Sheena Wilcher, 24, lost her husband in August to esophageal cancer. Wilcher (back right) is now raising (from left) Angel Wilcher, 6, Brayton Wilcher, 14 months, Benjamin Cunningham, 6 and Nathinello Wilcher, 5, by herself.

BY MARGARITA CAMBEST Recently, the Wilchers’ young adults NEW ERA STAFF WRITER Sunday school teacher Carolyn Self started collecting at First Baptist Church Sheena Wilcher, 24, met Chris Wilcher to cover funeral expenses and bills. She when she was 12. also opened a GoFundMe page at She was at Millbrooke Elementary. He Surviving http://www.gofundme.com/dp1ocg to was at Christian County Middle School. allow online donations. An account at They were too young to date at the time the Heritage Bank on Lafayette Road has but they “talked” anyway. also been set up under Sheena Wilcher Six years ago, the middle school sweet- Family Fund. hearts married, but at 26, Chris Wilcher “Chris had been coming to Sunday started having problems thought to be without dad school ever since he and Sheena met,” the result of chronic acid reflux. After 24 Self said. “Everybody is trying to help hours of tests, he was diagnosed with them. One thing Chris said when some Stage 4 esophageal cancer in February. of the young men came by said was that The father of three was given one month After cancer takes husband, church seeks it really helped him to know he had to live but died six months later, a day Christian friends around,” Self said. “It after his 27th birthday. was very meaningful to him and to us “He fought,” Wilcher said. “The last donations for newly widowed mother of 4 too.” four days that he lived he was fighting. Wilcher said she is working on getting I’d been sleeping for 20 minutes, and the a GED to pursue college courses for nurse said it was time. I told him he nursing. could go. We’d be OK.” Cunningham, 6, and Nathinello County Animal Shelter. Her husband “It gives me a chance at life that I’ve Sheena Wilcher is now raising four Wilcher,5, moved in with Sheena’s was a plumber and did farmwork on the never had before. I’ll be able to give my children — she has legal custody over a mother. Rescues Prissy, 1, and Charity, 2, side. kids what they deserve without having to nephew — and two dogs alone. After rent came too. “He loved to be outside and on the go,” depend on anyone.” and car insurance grew to be too much Because of her own medical problems, she said. “There was hardly a time you’d of a financial strain, Angel Wilcher, 6, Sheena hasn’t been able to work but is a see him sitting around. Even on days when REACH MARGARITA CAMBEST at 270-887-3231 Brayton Wilcher, 14 months, Benjamin regular volunteer at the Christian he had chemo he needed to be working.” or [email protected]. www.kentuckynewera.com | STRENGTH & MOTIVATION | Friday, Oct. 17, 2014 C7 Local girl fighting aggressive type of brain cancer

BY KAT RUSSELL NEW ERA PHOTOJOURNALIST

It was this year’s Fourth of July week- end when Heather Engel, 11, noticed she was having trouble with her vision — she was seeing double and couldn’t make out anything that was more than 10 feet away. “I thought it could be something like weakness in one of her eyes or maybe swelling behind one of her eyes,” Heather’s mom, Angel Engel, said. For several weeks before that, Heather had been dealing with almost daily headaches, the most severe of which hit in the week before the holiday. The following Tuesday, Angel took her daughter to the doctor. “He did a full exam and everything looked normal,” she said. “They couldn’t find any reason for the double vision or the headaches, but they said they wanted to do a CT scan to see if they could find anything that way.” The radiologist contacted the family the next day with the results and told them he’d found two white spots on Heather’s brain but did not know what they were. He told them to pack a bag and go the emergency room at Vanderbilt University Medical Center at once. There the doctors did an MRI and found that Heather “had significant abnormal- ities in her left front temporal lobe and in the back adjacent lobe,” Angel said, but they still didn’t know what that meant. The next step was a spinal tap followed by a brain biopsy so doctors could reach a definite diagnosis. After the surgery, the doctor came out and told Heather’s family that he could- n’t be sure until he got the pathology re- sults but that it did not look good. “He said ‘just from what I’ve seen, I def- initely think it’s probably malignant and it’s probably a higher grade,’” Angel said. KAT RUSSELL | KENTUCKY NEW ERA When they finally got the diagnosis, the Heather Engel (right), 11, and her mother Angel stand in the front yard of their Virginia Street home. Heather was diagnosed with a grade three anaplastic astrocytoma doctor was right — it wasn’t good news. — a rare and aggressive type of brain cancer — in July and is currently undergoing chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Heather is currently undergoing Heather was diagnosed with a grade- chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Doctors said that with the treatments, Heather has a 35 percent chance of surviving two years. three anaplastic astrocytoma, a rare and aggressive type of brain tumor that Doctors said Heather needed to start “She gets radiation every day for about weeks after Heather finishes her chemo sprouts tentacle-like projections that chemotherapy and radiation treatments 10-15 minutes … and she does the chemo and radiation. grow into the surrounding brain tissue, immediately, but Heather’s family was every night before bed,” Angel said. “That’s a scary place to be in,” Angel making the tumor to remove completely, hesitant. Heather is now in her fifth week of the said. “We’re doing all these things to treat according to the American Brain Tumor “They told us that with the type of treatments and she has about eight more the cancer but we don’t know if it’s going Association. brain tumor she has, the statistical sur- to go. Luckily, she said, she hasn’t experi- to work.” The news was devastating. vival rate is 35 percent for two years and enced much sickness as a result of the Right now, Heather said, she just wants “All I could think was this can’t be hap- then past that it goes down to like 20 per- medications. to be a normal kid and live her life. She pening … It can’t be real,” Angel said cent … and that’s with treatment,” Angel In addition to the medical treatment, said she doesn’t like feeling like all peo- said. tearfully. “My first thought was we eat Heather has cut sugar, starch and carbs ple see is her cancer. Worried about the various side effects “I don’t treat myself like I have cancer,” healthy, you know, how on earth could out of her diet and she follows a strict she get a tumor?” the treatments could have on her daugh- she said. “I just want to be me.” regimen of natural remedies designed to Heather said she didn’t know what to ter — some of which include nausea, hair For now, Angel said, the family is tak- think when she got the news. loss, fatigue, diarrhea, dryness, hearing boost her immune system and help with ing it one day at a time and holding on to “It all happened so quickly, it’s like I loss and infertility — Angel starting re- some of the treatments’ side effects. their faith and hope that they can make didn’t have time to think about it,” she searching alternative treatments. One of the most frustrating parts of all it through this. said. “Of course I don’t like that I have In the end, however, they opted to go of this, Angel said, is not knowing if the cancer, but I don’t think about it that ahead with the chemotherapy and radia- treatments are working. The doctors told REACH KAT RUSSELL at 270-887-3241 much.” tion treatments. her they won’t know until about six or [email protected]. ]É|Ç há \Ç Pink Ribbon Susan Kay Network Sisters Brought together with Boggess Nave a special lasting We love you and VxÄxuÜtà|Çz g{xáx friendship because we You are strong. our together times each traveled this You are a journey. Keep faith are so special. survivor. VÉâÜtzxÉâá jÉÅxÇ4 in God, be brave Love you! and courageous I love you and always The “Courage is the art of being “Fight Like A Girl” dearly. Love you all, Wilson the only one who knows Steve Three you’re scared to death!” Ann Isom Ellen Kay Beth Kay Kay Houchens Nave Casey Nave Nave Skinner We love, Beth, Kay, Mom, always 13 years cancer support you are our stay strong, remember, free. You have and are we will achieved so much inspiration. “God Has It” praying make it! and your family We will Love you loves you and for you. always love Love you, is proud of you. Your and support Matt Love, Your Family Family you. Joe & De

Kay Kay Vicky Kay Susan Nave Nave Outland Nave Boggess “Keep fighting the Prayers, hugs and Our sister. You continue to fight. Your strength love daily to you my Our friend. inspire us with and courage are an Keep your chin up. dear and special your strength, inspiration to us all. Keep fighting. Tell friend. You are others to get digital determination and You are a true Pink mammograms and positive attitude. We love you and Ribbon Warrior! an inspiration to bone scans. Love support you. Stay We love you. and Prayers Your so many others. strong and fight on! Steve, Mom, York Neel Love you - Love Cathy & Dad, Sheryl, Family Ann Isom Your Family Mildred Kenny & Colton C8 Friday, Oct. 17, 2014 | www.kentuckynewera.com

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BY MARGARITA CAMBEST 1998. She died four years later. NEW ERA STAFF WRITER “Cindy thought to the end that she was going to beat it,” Paula said. “When we Paula Lile and Lisa Perrin both received were diagnosed, we said we needed to do their breast cancer diagnoses as the result everything possible — no less than Cindy. of regular mammograms. The sisters are Sometimes the smallest thing … it can be 14 years apart, but received equally upset- something.” ting results. Now vocal advocates of early detection, Paula’s call came in 2006 at the age of 60. the sisters preach the importance of regu- “It’s a phone call no woman ever wants lar self-breast exams and screenings to to get — that there was a discrepancy in their daughters and all the other women in the picture,” Paula said. She got a lumpec- their family. tomy to have the tumor removed and radi- Lisa visits the Vanderbilt Breast Center ation treatment. twice a year now. For Lisa, the time leading up to her “You almost feel like there’s a bomb wait- breast cancer diagnosis was just as ing, but you can’t let it control your life. unfortunate. You have to be in control and live your life Her husband Jim Perrin, was diagnosed as much as you can.” with a rare form of lung cancer just two Paula checks in with Dr. Michael Mur- years before her own breast cancer diag- ray and Dr. Ramesh Patel at the E.C. nosis in July 2012. His condition started to Greene Cancer Center just as often. decline. Overwhelmed with his care, she “My advice to anybody is you need to asked a nurse if she could put off the sur- know your body and pay attention to any gery to remove the cancer. The nurse said aches and pains. If your body is doing any- no. thing different, you need to get it checked Lisa Perrin had a mastectomy in August MARGARITA CAMBEST | KENTUCKY NEW ERA out,” she said. followed by reconstruction surgery. Breast cancer survivors Paula Lile (right) and her sister Lisa Perrin smile for a photo. The sisters were diagnosed Aside from early detection, both sisters Jim Perrin, beloved father, husband and six years apart. They are now vocal advocates of early detection, preaching the importance of self-examina- said the support of their friends, family longtime Christian County softball coach tions and regular screenings. and church were crucial to helping them died Oct. 15, 2012. get through treatment and surgeries. “I still feel blessed, but sometimes I feel “People say it hurts, but what’s the al- for breast cancer, is normally given to “He’s there all the time,” Lisa said. like I’m one of the lucky ones because of ternative?” Lisa said. “So many people say women who have a strong family history. “Everything isn’t going to go the way you early detection.” ‘that’s not going to happen to me’ and then Although, their father died from a rare want it to go, but I think sometimes God For the estimated 292,000 women diag- it does.” form of spinal cancer and their mother only gives us as much as we can handle.” nosed with breast cancer each year, the Paula and her late sister, Cindy, were had both breasts removed in her 40s as a chances of survival soar with early detec- tested for the breast cancer gene long be- preemptive strike, neither sister tested fore their diagnosis. The BRCA gene test, a positive early on. REACH MARGARITA CAMBESTat 270-887-3231 tion. The two Hopkinsville sisters credit or [email protected]. their current cancer-free states to just that. blood test to analyze changes in markers Cindy was 45 when she was diagnosed in

Survivor: Know your ABCs when starting a new life after cancer

Y DAVID SNOW participants receive full access to Lymphedema is when there is a to restore them. We want them to she was 29 years old and living in THE EAGLE POST the Y, a custom wellness plan de- buildup of lymph fluid caused know that, you know, don’t give Murfreesboro. signed by a Pink Ribbon-certified when surgery or radiation treat- up. You may not be the person “I didn’t know what to do,” she Experts say that, when a personal trainer, nutrition coun- ments damage some of the nodes you were before, but take it one said, “so I found out about the woman is treated for breast can- seling from a registered dietitian or vessels that lymph fluid moves day at a time and be surrounded ABC program at the YMCA and I cer, there needs to be a psycho- and encouragement and support through. The remaining vessels by others.” joined it. After I went through it logical and physiological from staff members as well as fel- are overwhelmed by the increase Billingsley is encouraging and found out how much it rebuilding, giving her body a low breast cancer patients and in lymph flow, and it can cause members of the Fort Campbell helped me, I wanted to be a coor- chance to readjust to a new life. survivors. further physical damage if some- support group to join the ABC dinator.” Growing up, few parents teach Clarksville YMCA program co- one tries to exercise before she is program at the Clarksville Anyone interested in taking their children about how to deal ordinator Tracy Billingsley is in ready. YMCA as a part of rebuilding part in the ABC program or get- with life after experiencing can- charge of the ABC program The ABC program at the themselves, meeting others and ting information about it can call Clarksville YMCA provides lym- retraining their minds and bod- cer, but sometimes, the answer is there, and also helps with a Billingsley at the Clarksville as easy as ABC. breast cancer support group pro- phedema education and training ies after going through this trau- The After Breast Cancer pro- as well as nutrition education matic experience. YMCA Kimbrough Family Cen- gram at Blanchfield Army Com- ter at 931-647-2376, ext. 71729, or do gram at the Clarksville YMCA munity Hospital at Fort and educational seminars with “I’m a survivor myself, so I a web search for “After Breast provides support groups, train- Campbell. the help of professionals from kind of share my breast cancer Cancer.” ing sessions and education to “I’m a spokeswoman for cancer, Gateway Medical Center in journey and how certain pro- those going through this difficult and I’m a survivor myself,” she Clarksville. grams can help you get through The Clarksville YMCA is lo- time. ABC provides comprehen- said. “After you have breast sur- “We offer encouragement and it,” she said. “That’s how I nor- cated at 260 Hillcrest Dr. in sive nutrition, exercise and well- gery, your body’s not the same, so support,” Billingsley said. “We mally start the (Fort Campbell) Clarksville. Information can be ness services free of charge to it wouldn’t be safe for a woman want to mentally, physically and meetings, and then I let every- found at its website at breast cancer patients and sur- who has had a double-mastec- emotionally restore (cancer pa- body in the room just share their www.ymcamidtn.org/clarksville. vivors. The program has seen tomy or whatever her surgery tients) after going through breast story.” more than 200 clients since 1999. was to run the risk of cancer. You’re not the same after Billingsley said she was diag- DAVID SNOWis the editor of The Eagle Post. Reach During the 16-week program, lymphedema.” going through cancer, so we want nosed with Stage 4 cancer when David at 270-887-3295 or [email protected].

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FROM STATEPOINT

No one wants to think about breast cancer often, but there’s definitely one person with whom you should discuss the topic annually — your doctor. From innovative detection tests to new prevention re- search, your physician can be a great source of in- formation on new ways women are protecting themselves from this life- threatening illness. “Between family, friends and career, a doctor’s ap- pointment may not be a top priority for women. But checkups are integral to breast cancer preven- tion,” says Dr. Steven Quay, Chairman, CEO and Pres- ident of Atossa Genetics and inventor of the Fore- CYTE Breast Health Test. “October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION month, is an excellent time to take five minutes ing children. fectiveness, isn’t recom- tion of cancer or pre-can- “From lifestyle changes a registered dietician for to schedule your screen- Genetic risk, heredity, mended for younger cerous conditions. to therapeutic interven- advice on improving your ing exams,” Quay says. the presence of pre-malig- women. But now there are Just as the Pap smear tions, knowing your life- diet. Your doctor can also Here are key topics to nant cells and breast den- adjunct tests that younger has reduced cervical can- time risk of breast cancer recommend the best way discuss with your doctor sity should also be women can request that cer rates by over 70 per- can help you make impor- to ease into a fitness rou- to ensure you make the considered. Talk to your can detect silent, re- cent by finding and tant medical decisions tine, taking into account most of your visit: doctor about what tests versible milk duct hyper- treating reversible pre- now,” notes Quay. your overall health and you should be receiving to plasia, a condition that cancer before it becomes More information about current fitness level. determine your risk, and can lead to breast cancer cancer, the goal of Atossa determining your risk for If you’re a smoker or Risk if there are lifestyle in a decade if left un- Genetics, maker of Fore- breast cancer can be found drinker, ask your physi- Breast cancer risk is changes you should make. treated. The new quick CYTE and other diagnos- at www.AtossaGenetics. cian to direct you toward multifaceted. Age is one and non-invasive Fore- tic risk assessments, is to com. resources that can help factor — as you get older CYTE Breast Health Test, reduce the high rate of you curb the habit. your risk rises. Certain Testing for example, collects and breast cancer through This Breast Cancer lifestyle factors can also Breast cancer can strike analyzes individual cells early detection of re- Lifestyle Awareness Month, take increase your risk — at any age. Unfortunately, from a small sample of versible precursor Maintaining a healthy charge of your health by being overweight, taking mammography, the most milk duct fluid collected changes that can lead to body weight can reduce learning more about early birth control pills, alcohol common test which is now from each breast, and can breast cancer and to treat your risk for breast can- detection, testing options consumption and not hav- controversial as to its ef- provide vital early detec- those early changes. cer. Ask your physician or and prevention. Breast cancer patients choosing lumpectomy over mastectomy Oncologist recommends exploring options

BY ZIRCONIA ALLEYNE NEW ERA COMMUNITY WRITER

With any breast cancer diagnosis there are several options for treat- ment such as radiation, chemotherapy and drug-targeted therapy. Sometimes doctors go to more extensive measures to save a patient’s life and rid them of cancerous tumors that may spread the disease. Dr. Michael Murray, radiation oncologist at the E.C. Green Cancer Center at Jennie Stuart Medical Center, breaks down the difference between a mastectomy and lumpectomy, and other options after the procedure. A mastectomy is the removal of the entire breast. The procedure is performed by an oncologist when cancer is already present or to pre- METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION vent the future development of cancer in breast tissue. There are several types of mastectomy that can be performed such as radical, which removes the en- Healthy habits to lower your risk tire breast, axillary lymph nodes and chest wall muscles under the breast. Certain types of cancer are more likely to to secondhand smoke were 25 percent more Murray pointed out that this procedure is very strike certain types of people than others. For likely to have coronary heart disease com- rarely done today. example, while men can be diagnosed with pared to nonsmokers not exposed to smoke. “It’s only used in extreme cases,” he said. breast cancer, women are far more likely to Secondhand smoke is especially harmful to Those cases being, if the cancer is quite advanced develop the disease. But just because a per- children, as kids whose parents smoke around at the time of diagnosis or if the patient prefers that son's risk of developing cancer is low, that them get bronchitis and pneumonia more procedure to additional therapy. does not make that person immune from the often than kids whose parents abstain from “Even if it’s (a) small (area of) cancer picked up disease. As a result, it's important that men smoking in their presence. on a mammogram, some patients prefer to have and women take steps to lower their cancer the breast removed — but not many,” he said. risk. Exercise regularly More so, if patients decide to get a mastec- One of the more effective ways to lower tomy, most get a modified radical mastectomy, your risk for cancer is to ensure your lifestyle The NCI notes that there is strong evidence which, Murray said, is the removal of the choices are as healthy as possible. Choosing that physical activity is associated with re- breast and axillary lymph nodes, which are habits that benefit your short- and long-term duced risk of certain cancers, including can- found in the underarms. health can reduce your risk for cancer and a cers of the breast and colon. More than 60 studies published in North America, Europe, In rare cases, Murray pointed out, that men can be diagnosed with host of additional ailments. Asia, and Australia have indicated that phys- breast cancer, and it’s often found in late stages. ically active women have a lower risk of de- “It’s not common enough for us to suggest every male get a mam- Maintain a healthy weight veloping breast cancer than inactive women, mogram, but it can happen,” he said, noting that men make up about According to the American Cancer Society, with some active women reducing their risk 1 percent of cases. men and women who are overweight or obese by as much as 80 percent. Studies conducted A mastectomy would be suggested for a male patient if the cancer is are at a greater risk of several types of can- around the world have produced similar find- in advanced stages. cer, including cancer of the esophagus, pan- ings with regard to colon cancer. Research has Murray said he has noticed a rise in women patients choosing to creas, colon and rectum, breast, kidney, and consistently indicated that adults who in- have a lumpectomy instead of a mastectomy. thyroid. The National Cancer Institute defines crease their physical activity, be it in intensity, A lumpectomy, also called a partial mastectomy, removes only the obesity as someone with a body mass index, duration or frequency, can reduce their risk cancerous lump and the patient continues radiation without losing or BMI, of 30 or above, while someone with a of developing colon cancer by 30 to 40 percent the entire breast. BMI between 25 and 29.9 is considered over- relative to adults who are sedentary. The ACS Murray said for early stage cancer, studies have shown that the cure weight. Maintaining a healthy weight or shed- suggests adults include at least 150 minutes of rate is the same if patients choose a mastectomy or a lumpectomy ding excess weight if you are already at an moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of with radiation therapy. elevated risk for cancer can lower your risk vigorous activity in their weekly routines, All in all, the decision to lose any part of a women’s body is a diffi- for cancer and other potentially debilitating though many studies have found that 30 to 60 cult one. diseases, including diabetes, high blood pres- minutes of moderate to vigorous physical ac- Some women choose to have reconstructive surgery with a plastic sure and stroke. tivity per day is the most effective way to re- surgeon after either of the cancer-ridding procedures. duce cancer risk significantly. Murray said several factors go into a decision of reconstructive sur- Quit smoking gery; for example, the location of the cancer, the health condition of Smokers might be surprised to learn that to- Reduce alcohol consumption the patient and their physical characteristics. bacco use, according to the ACS, is responsi- While many adults may be quick to point He reiterated that cancer treatments and procedures are a joint ef- ble for nearly 20 percent of all deaths in the out the benefits that a glass of wine can have fort between the patient, radiation oncologists and surgeons. United States. That might have something to with regard to a person's risk of heart disease With any procedure, Murray advises that patients get good infor- do with tobacco's role in causing more than a or stroke, the National Toxicology Program of mation and ask questions. dozen types of cancer and its link to heart dis- the U.S. Department of Health and Human “I urge patients to talk to specialists before they make a decision,” ease, emphysema and stroke. Services as recently as 2011 listed the con- Murray said. “ ... Just because you talk to a doctor doesn’t mean you But smoking can even harm nonsmokers sumption of alcoholic beverages as a known are obligated to do what they offer you.” unfortunate enough to spend time in the human carcinogen. Alcohol consumption is a He suggested the National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes vicinity of smokers. Such nonsmokers take in major risk factor for various types of cancers, of Health or the American Cancer Society for patient specific infor- nicotine and thousands of additional chemi- including head and neck cancers, esophageal mation. cals, including carbon monoxide and cad- cancer, liver cancer, and breast cancer. Adults Both organizations have websites, www.cancer.gov and www. mium, a chemical element used in batteries, who continue to consume alcohol should do so cancer.org. when people smoke near them. In addition, a in moderation, which the ACS defines as no study published in the New England Journal more than two drinks per day for men and no REACH ZIRCONIA ALLEYNE at 270-887-3243 or [email protected]. of Medicine found that nonsmokers exposed more than one drink per day for women. www.kentuckynewera.com | STRENGTH & MOTIVATION | Friday, Oct. 17, 2014 C11 Local sports teams support cancer awareness

BY DAVID SNOW THE EAGLE POST

The requirements placed on high school students these days gives them little time to dedicate to a cause or work for charity. For students of extracurricular achieve- ment like academic club members or stu- dent-athletes, that time is curtailed even more. However, in recent years, student-ath- letes at area schools have found the time to show their support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month by wearing pink at cer- tain athletic events this month, dedicating time and donations to the cause of curing breast cancer. All four high school teams in District 8 — Christian County, Hopkinsville, Univer- sity Heights Academy and Fort Campbell — have shown their support this month on the playing field by wearing pink. In high school and collegiate volleyball, there is a “Dig Pink Night” where teams show their support for breast cancer awareness and research. Dig Pink is the brand name used by The Side-Out Foundation, a nonprofit organi- zation that promotes volleyball events throughout the year to raise money for breast cancer research. The Side-Out Foundation was estab- lished in 2004 to unite volleyball players and coaches and have them work toward the common goal of furthering breast can- cer awareness, education and patient CHRIS JUNG | KENTUCKY NEW ERA services. Christian County High School volleyball senior April Buckner (left) presents a pink flower to Delmar Nance during the annual “Dig Pink” game on Thursday against Side-Out supports teams nationwide in Hopkinsville. The Colonels, which presented flowers to friends and family that had suffered cancer, defeated the Tigers 3-0 to clinch the top district seed. their volleyball tournaments, clinics and other fundraising efforts. Those funds are given to organizations that serve breast done to help advance the research to help cancer patients in the form of research, save people from this terrible disease, I’m medical services or patient support. all for.” Collegiate and high school teams alike Hopkinsville volleyball coach Mindy take part in the annual Dig Pink cause, se- Hargrove also supported the Dig Pink lecting a Dig Pink Night match to promote cause. She added that a rule from the Ken- breast cancer awareness and working for tucky High School Athletics Association a cure. that disallows special events will be en- For Christian County’s volleyball team, forced after this season. the cause hits close to home, as the team “We donate our money to Relay for Life honors a student who died from leukemia. because the money stays local,” she said. Matthew Litchfield died in October 2008 “We’ve been wearing pink or black or at the age of 15. something of that sort for the past four or The Lady Colonels hosted crosstown five years (for Dig Pink Night), but KHSAA rival Hopkinsville on Oct. 2 in what is has mandated that, from here on out, we will no longer be able to wear special jer- called “Dig Pink Night.” seys for special events. So, I don’t know “We host our annual Dig Pink night with what we’re going to do next year.” Hopkinsville every year,” said CCHS coach Hargrove said that Tiger players play in Rick Erickson. “That way, it’s a commu- honor of or in memory of family members nity thing. We donate to the local Relay for or friends who have had cancer. Life. “We do that recognition prior to our CHRIS JUNG | KENTUCKY NEW ERA “One of my former players was great match, so it’s special to them and everyone Hopkinsville High School volleyball sophomore Madison Boren lines up a serve in the annual Dig Pink Night friends with (Matthew). It was a way to else,” she said. “It has a little bit more sig- show respect. His parents are big fans of against Christian County High School on Oct. 2. The community event helps to raise breast cancer awareness nificant meaning than playing a regular and promote funding for research for treatment and a cure. Christian County athletics and especially ballgame. We’ve been doing this for the the volleyball team. They came to a lot of past five or six years. I’m sure we will con- our matches. So, it was a way that we could tinue to do something, but I’m not sure “In between the JV and the varsity boys’ of have an idea, I’m hoping next year to do honor them and honor Matthew, having an what we’re planning for next year.” games, we had the boys on the field,” a little more and start a little earlier to do orange ribbon for leukemia on our ‘Dig Breast cancer predominantly affects Choate said. “They all had their (pink) something for breast cancer.” Pink’ shirts every year.” women directly, but the UHA boys’ soccer shirts on. … This year, we decided not to Fort Campbell also showed its support of While cancer is something that is known team shows its support each year for the individually recognize people because we breast cancer awareness and research at personally to almost everyone, it hits home cause. On Oct. 2, in its game against didn’t want to leave somebody out, so we its home football game on Oct. 10 against for Erickson, whose mother passed away Owensboro Catholic, the team showed its just did an overall recognition of those Paducah Tilghman. The players wore pink from breast cancer. support for breast cancer awareness and affected. socks to show their support, and the cheer- “It was personal to me,” he said of the research by wearing pink jerseys and pink “We did sell extra shirts, and we are do- leaders had pullovers that read “Go, Fight, cause. “When I found out about (Dig Pink), socks. nating that to breast cancer.” Donations were earmarked for the Cure” on the back. I wanted to start having it, and then I Stacey Choate, the mother of freshman People often hear about what adults are wanted to start having it with Hop- player Colton Choate, helped to organize Susan G. Komen organization that was founded in 1982 to help promote breast can- doing in support of cancer research and kinsville to make it more community the event for the Blazers. awareness, but seeing young people get in- oriented. “We had shirts and everything made for cer awareness and advocate funding for research. volved with such a cause brings home how “I think it’s great, how (Dig Pink) is get- breast cancer awareness and recognized many people are affected by cancer and ting the word out because there’s so many those that are affected who have connec- Chaote said she hoped that the team would be able to do even more next year, as how urgent the need is to push to find a people that are affected by cancer. You can tions to UHA, like parents,” she said. cure. seldom meet anyone that hasn’t had some- The team called the event “Kicking for a this year’s schedule wasn’t conducive to one that they personally know — family Cure,” and used the game to raise aware- organizing a date for the event. “This is really my first year of oversee- DAVID SNOWis the editor of The Eagle Post. Reach David Snow at 270- member, friend or whatever — that has ness and donations for breast cancer 887-3295 or [email protected]. been affected by it. Anything that can be research. ing (the event),” she said. “Now that I kind US lawmakers want cancer added to WTC disease list

NEW YORK (AP) — A new medical study supports the The lawmakers said they filed a petition with the ad- Federal lawmakers said the new study was still suffi- argument for including cancers on a list of World Trade ministrator of the 9/11 health program to require an im- cient to revisit the administrator’s decision of whether Center-linked diseases that qualify for assistance under mediate review of the study, which was published to add cancers to a list of diseased covered under the the national Sept. 11 health program, federal lawmakers Thursday in the medical journal The Lancet, and to con- James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act. said. sider adding coverage for cancers. “We don’t want to wait until all of the evidence is in,” “The evidence is now compelling,” said U.S. Rep. Jer- The study did note a few potentially worrisome trends, said Rangel, who called the study “a tremendous medical rold Nadler, standing with colleagues at the entrance to including an unexpected number of thyroid cancers. But bit of evidence.” He said people who were sick could not the subway station at the trade center site in lower Man- cancers can take decades to develop, and the authors of afford to wait. hattan. “It’s essential that we do this.” the study cautioned that the seven-year period the study Nadler said that they have “always known that many But evidence of a cancer tie is still largely lacking. The covered might be too brief to make anything but quali- of the chemicals in that toxic brew that people were lawmakers — Nadler was joined by U.S. Reps. Carolyn fied interpretations. breathing causes cancer.” And he said they knew with Maloney, Charles Rangel and Nydia Velazquez — were re- This past summer, the national program’s administra- “moral certainty” that a link between 9/11 and cancers sponding to a study conducted by the city’s fire depart- tor declined to add cancers to the list of covered illnesses, existed, but did not have the peer-reviewed studies to sup- ment that found no significant increase in cancer rates saying there was insufficient medical evidence that dust port that — until now. among nearly 9,000 firefighters exposed to trade center from the destroyed twin towers was giving people the “It would be inhuman to wait for more and more evi- dust. disease. dence,” he said.

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www.northtrustinsurance.com C12 Friday, Oct. 17, 2014 | STRENGTH & MOTIVATION | www.kentuckynewera.com 3 tips for proactive breast health

BY MARGARITA CAMBEST NEW ERA STAFF WRITER 2. Check with your physician for an annual exam QuickInfo: Local resources Mammograms are used to screen for breast cancer Pink Ribbon Network- Meetings at 7 p.m. on the The American Cancer Society estimates 232,670 as well. first Thursday of each month at First United Methodist women in the United States will be diagnosed with in- “During those exams they generally also do a vasive breast cancer and 62,570 will be diagnosed with breast exam,” Foster-Brumsfield said. “Keep up with Church Hopkinsville, 1305 S. Main St. Hopkinsville non-invasive breast cancer this year. Chances of be- your yearly physical or checkup with your medical Hair Zone Beauty Supply- 2209 Fort Campbell coming a survivor increase the earlier those diagnoses doctor or gynecologist and let them check you.” Blvd, Hopkinsville happen, but many women still shy away from check- Foster-Brumsfield said the doctors recommend Teresa’s Perfect Fit- 3375 U.S. 41 Alt, Clarksville, TN ups that could save lives. yearly mammograms for women starting at age 40, 37043 Elizabeth Foster-Brumsfield, a licensed nurse prac- but said the literature changes from year to year. The Perfect Fit- 2362 Russellville Rd. Bowling Green, KY titioner at the E.C. Greene Cancer Center in Hop- “That will be a decision that’s made with the pa- 42101 kinsville, shared these tips from the office of Dr. Ratilal tient and physician.” Gajera and Dr. Ramesh Patel: 1. Foremost, be proactive about your own health 3. Family history may have an impact “It’s always “Generally speaking, the survival rates are going very important to be very thorough about your family to be tremendously better, prognosis is going to be “Look for abnormalities during a monthly self- much better and can often be cured the earlier that history and about other people in your family who breast exam,” Foster-Brumsfield said. “A lot of it’s caught,” Foster-Brumsfield said. “These are all women find abnormalities, like a knot or nodule have had breast cancer in particular,” Foster-Brums- important tools to give a better outcome for the pa- that wasn’t there before, and their doctor will do a field said. tient.” mammogram or ultrasound. They can eventually If a mother, aunt, sister or other close female relative be sent to a surgeon if (the doctor) felt it was some- have had breast cancer, doctors may recommend mam- REACH MARGARITA CAMBEST at 270-887-3231 thing that needed to be biopsied.” mograms at 30 or younger. or [email protected]. Cancer debate: Are tumors fueled by stem cells?

NEW YORK (AP) — How cells within the original tu- can a cancer come back mors. Again, the research after it’s apparently been relies on mice. That and eradicated? Three studies other factors mean the are bolstering a long-de- new findings still won’t bated idea: that tumors convince everyone that contain their own pool of cancer stem cells are key stem cells that can multiply to finding more powerful and keep fueling the can- treatments. cer, seeding regrowth. But researcher Luis If that’s true, scientists Parada, of the University will need to find a way to of Texas Southwestern kill those cells, apart from Medical Center in Dallas, how they attack the rest of believes his team is onto the tumor. something. He says that for Stem cells in healthy tis- the type of brain tumor his sues are known for their team studied, “we’ve iden- ability to produce any tified the true enemy.” kind of cell. The new re- If his finding applies to search deals with a differ- other cancers, he said, then ent kind, cancer stem even if chemotherapy dras- cells. Some researchers, tically shrinks a tumor but but not all, believe they doesn’t affect its supply of lurk as a persisting fea- cancer stem cells, “very lit- ture in tumors. tle progress has actually Over the past decade, been made.” studies have found evi- The three studies used la- dence for them in tumors beling techniques to trace like breast and colon can- the ancestry of cells within cers. But this research has mouse tumors. largely depended on trans- Collectively, they give planting human cancer “very strong support” to cells into mice that don’t the cancer stem cell theory, have immune systems, an said Jeffrey M. Rosen, a artificial environment that professor of molecular and raises questions about the cellular biology at Baylor relevance of the results. College of Medicine in Now, three studies re- Houston. He did not partic- ported in the journals Na- ipate in the work but sup- ture and Science present ports the theory, which he evidence for cancer stem said is widely accepted.

N.D. pharmacist creates cancer-easing medicine

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — The small syringes stored in brown bags at a local pharmacy have proved a boon to women across the country with cancer that has taken a toll on their sex lives. A new gel created by a Bismarck pharmacist aims to combat the vaginal dryness that can accompany breast and other gynecological cancers. “When women are starved for estrogen, such as in the case of breast cancer and maybe some other gynecologic cancers, that affects the integrity of the vaginal wall, causing it to dry,” said Mike Riepl, a registered pharma- cist and director of compounding services at Gateway Pharmacy North. His pharmacy is the only one in the nation with au- thority to create DHEA bioadhesive vaginal gel. It’s avail- able over the counter in North Dakota, and people in other states can receive it through the mail with a prescription, the Bismarck Tribune reported. The Mayo Clinic contacted him two years ago after working with him on another project and asked him to de- velop a gel for a study on vaginal dryness in women with cancer. “What they wanted was a particular dosage form that would not leak,” he said. “With creams and suppositories, the dose will leak, and they wanted more control over that.” Women without breast or gynecological cancer who ex- perience vaginal dryness typically rely on drugs that con- tain estrogen. But a woman with one of those diseases has few options. “If they have an estrogen-dependent cancer and if they are in remission, it could cause them to come out of re- missions and they could develop cancer all over again,” Riepl said. He worked for several weeks to develop the drug and came up with a bioadhesive gel filled with the hormone DHEA that sticks to the vaginal wall. The adhesive nature of the gel gives women more freedom to choose when to use it, he said. “They can use it any time of the day,” he said. “They can use it in the morning or at noon — whenever they happen to think about it — instead of having to use it at bedtime.” Debra Barton, a nursing professor at the University of Michigan, led a clinical trial of the drug, testing 441 women throughout the country and Canada. Researchers found that the drug helped ease vaginal dryness, atrophy and pain during sex in most cases, though it’s not effective in 100 percent of women. The drug comes in one of two doses, and the higher-strength dose can increase a woman’s sex drive, which sometimes disappears with cancer. “That resolved a lot of issues with their partner and some of the emotional aspects of the disease itself,” Riepl said. www.kentuckynewera.com | STRENGTH & MOTIVATION | Friday, Oct. 17, 2014 C13 Delaware first lady Markell reflects on her breast cancer

Told to treat cancer like a was walking around in a fog, and I didn’t really know what to do.” full-time job, she takes steps The fear of losing her, of not knowing how many days they might have left to- to fight it, even in remission gether, never left his mind. After that, he slipped into the role of WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) — In six personal attendant seamlessly: research- months, Delaware first lady Carla ing the disease, taking notes and asking Markell will mark the 10th anniversary questions. of her breast cancer diagnosis. “It was scary. I was really scared, but “It’s interesting — it fades and fades she was really strong and I think her away more into the background,” she strength made me stronger, and, thank said last month during an interview at God, we got through it together,” he said. her Wilmington home. The pair would walk, talk and reflect, It all started with an annoying itch on and just try to be more present with each her left breast in March 2005. other, the governor said. “When I first discovered it, I knew in- “Frankly, things like, if we are watch- tuitively something was going on with ing TV, me rubbing her feet. I think me and I wasn’t quite sure what it was,” things like that make a difference and she said. bring you closer together,” he said. So, she made two appointments: One The governor was no stranger to breast with a dermatologist and another with a cancer; his sister, Judy, was diagnosed a radiologist to get a mammogram. couple years before his wife. She was 44. Though heart-wrenching, it was com- The dermatologist thought it was a forting to have someone to relate to, rash, she said, but she had a feeling the Carla Markell added. radiologist would find something differ- She particularly remembers how her ent. sister-in law would question doctors and “Inside, I knew that wasn’t right.” seek second opinions. The day of her mammogram, typical “I think a good doctor encourages the March weather set the stage: in like a questions and encourages other opin- lamb and out like a lion. ions. If someone is uncomfortable with “It was one of those days where I that, it might not be the right doctor,” walked into the radiologist’s office and it Carla Markell said. was a bright sunny day,” Markell, now 53, One of the best pieces of advice she re- recalled. “Luckily, she was able to do the ceived was from her physician at Chris- ultrasound the same day. I could tell she tiana Care Health System: Treat cancer knew it was cancer. ... When I walked out like your full-time job. of the office it was snowing, blustering “I dropped everything that I was doing, and windy. It was like the weather basically. I was very good to myself. I just shifted. didn’t allow myself to take on more than “It was like life just changed.” I really wanted to,” she said. The following week Markell had a “I think as women we tend to want to biopsy that confirmed the diagnosis: keep going. I know a lot of women who stage 1 breast cancer. Her cancer was keep working full-time and treat it contained to a smaller area. (breast cancer) like a little nothing, but Luckily, she said, it had not spread into for me — and I think my advice to other her lymph nodes. women — take the opportunity to slow At the time, she was mom to two young down and take care of yourself during ASSOCIATED PRESS the process. Because you don’t want to children, Molly, 11, and Michael, 9, and In six months, Delaware First Lady Carla Markell will mark the 10th anniversary of her breast cancer diagnosis. wife to Jack, who was serving his second have to do it again.” term as state treasurer. After the diagnosis, Markell felt her “It was one of those life-changing young,” Markell recalled thinking at the prised. I just wanted them to feel like roles reverse. Always a community ad- things where it kind of makes you stop time. they were in the loop in every way,” she vocate, she found the breast cancer sur- and look at things in a different way. Even so, she said the medical staff said. vivor community opened their arms to When you hit a road like that, you just were top-notch and — even better — per- “They never had this fear that some- her. hope you can have the right health care,” sonal. During her 30 days of radiation, thing really bad was happening.” Markell is in remission, but still goes she said. she said the nurses would allow family At the initial moment of her diagnosis, for her yearly mammograms and tries to She went on to have a lumpectomy in members and dogs into the facility. however, Markell said she felt alone. Hus- eat extremely healthfully, which can be April 2005, and radiation for 30 days “They try to make it as human and hu- band Jack had been traveling for work difficult because she has a bit of a sweet starting that June. mane as possible,” she said. and her mother was unreachable. Once tooth. She describes the entire recovery Through everything, it was important the now-governor talked to his wife, how- “I do what’s in my control to stay on top process as “uncomfortable.” She felt like to keep her family, especially her chil- ever, he immediately returned home and of it and I don’t live in fear. I don’t live in she had landed in a surreal world with dren, informed of the entire process, she from that point forward, became the des- fear with anything, because I think that’s no escape, with doctors constantly pok- said. They knew about her strange itch, ignated scribe at all of her doctors’ ap- a very unhealthy place to live all the ing and prodding. the checkups, biopsy and radiation — all pointments. time,” she said. “I can’t believe this is my life. I can’t be- of it. “I was shocked” the governor recalled. “I just try to stay positive and go for- lieve this is happening to me. I’m so “I just didn’t want them to be sur- “And I’d say for the first couple days, I ward assuming everything is alright.”

THANKS FOR SUPPORTING OUR RACK!

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14th annual Women’s Show put on bra contest Knockable to benefit Relay for Life October 2, 2014 Knockers from the Pink Ribbon Network

The winner of the Be My Support bra contest announced at the Western Kentucky Women’s Show was United Southern Bank’s “Spud Buds - Save the Pa-Ta-Ta’s.” Save the Racks from the Kentucky New Era

A Selection of other bras from the contest.

Cop A Feel from the Hopkinsville Police Department www.kentuckynewera.com | STRENGTH & MOTIVATION | Friday, Oct. 17, 2014 C15 Cancer survivor, author writes to support others

BY DAVID SNOW cancer, but through her faith and determination, she was through this does not mean your cancer is less than any- THE EAGLE POST able to persevere. body else’s cancer. Your cancer is your cancer.’ And that “It was an emotional roller-coaster,” she said. “I was so beautiful to me that she said that. Facing the ordeal of being diagnosed with cancer is a thought, ‘This one’s going to kill me. No, have faith in “I actually put that in my book,” she said. “I wrote a challenge that would shake a person to the very core. God. I’m going to be here and do whatever I’m supposed poem about it and dedicated it to her because my cancer Shabarbara Best-Everette has been diagnosed three to do.’ is real. Even though I didn’t have to go through the times, and while she doesn’t just laugh off the frightening “But, at the same time I was scared, I was also forced to chemo, the cancer is still real and it is life-threatening. If reality of those diagnoses, she also doesn’t let it stop her fulfill my destiny. I tried to do everything I could. ‘If I’m I didn’t take care of it when I did, it could have killed me.” from living her life. going to die, I’m going to do everything I can before I die.’ Best-Everette tries to live each day to the fullest and en- Best-Everette has written 19 books and 12 of those have That kind of pushed me to move for- courages others to do the same. She been published. In most of her books the topic is targeted ward and do what I love to do: write “If I’m going to die, I’m also advises people to take care of at people who need a supporting hand, ranging from sur- books and speak to people, mostly themselves by learning their fam- viving with cancer to bullying. children.” ily’s health history and getting She was diagnosed twice with breast cancer, most re- A former special-needs teacher and going to do everything I checked every year. cently last year, and also diagnosed with cervical cancer. daycare owner, Best-Everette is using “A lot of people ignore it, espe- “It started with my junior year in college,” she said of her energy to write books aimed at can before I die.” cially if they don’t have a history of her first diagnosis of breast cancer. “I felt the lump when children and adults to help them cope cancer in their family,” she said. I did my breast self-exam. Many people in my family had with life’s unexpected moments. Shabarbara Best-Everette “They’ll ignore it: ‘Oh, it’s nothing.’ died from cancer, so that’s why I knew to do a self-exam. Titles like “Why Am I So Sick?” and And by the time they finally get it n Most students don’t do that.” “Stop Bullying Me!” are aimed at help- Cancer survivor and author checked out, it could be Stage 4.” The second time Best-Everette was diagnosed with ing children cope with cancer and bul- To encourage living life to its breast cancer was last year. Despite doing a self-exam, she lying, while “Where is My Mommy?” fullest, Best-Everette wants cancer did not feel the lump because it was too deep, but it was and “I Miss My Dad” help them deal with parents who patients to find support groups where they can, within found through a mammogram. are deployed. Some of the books have their own accom- their family, circle of friends or organizations like the “If I hadn’t had the mammogram, I wouldn’t have panying activity books to give children additional things cancer support group at Fort Campbell’s Blanchfield known,” she said. “It was in a position where it was too to do. Army Community Hospital. Her husband, Staff Sgt. Ter- deep (to detect in a self-exam), and it would have spread Best-Everette felt blessed because she did not have to rence Everette, and son, Malachi, have been supportive if I hadn’t had a mammogram.” endure chemotherapy treatments or radiation treat- and inspirational in her life. Best-Everette encourages women to have mammo- ments. Her cancers were treated surgically. Also, building a positive attitude can help heal. grams earlier than the recommended age of 40 because a “That was such a blessing to me,” she said. “My can- “People ask me why I smile all the time, and I tell them, number of women have died from breast cancer before cer’s nothing because they found mine early, and all I ‘Because I can and because I’m here,’” she said. “Be they reach that age. have to do is go every three months for mammograms or happy that you’re still here another day. It’s amazing what “Back then, in the early ’90s, you didn’t really hear ultrasound. people go through, and you have no idea what they’re about too many young people having cancer,” she said. “I said that during my first support group meeting: ‘My going through.” “Now, it’s any age. You hear about all ages now.” girlfriend has skin cancer, and she has to go through this She was shocked when she was diagnosed with cervical and this. My cancer is nothing.’ Tracy Billingsley said, DAVID SNOWis the editor of The Eagle Post. Reach David Snow at 270-887-3295 cancer and again with her second diagnosis of breast ‘Your cancer is your cancer. Just because they have to go or [email protected]. Returning to normalcy after New prostate cancer test receiving a cancer diagnosis advice overturns dogma

Cancer. It’s a word no one wants to hear, WASHINGTON (AP) — Men finally for all cancers,” Ejnes said. yet all too many people are diagnosed each may be getting a clearer message about That’s an emotional shift, as the Amer- year. With a diagnosis comes many ques- undergoing PSA screening for prostate ican Cancer Society’s Dr. Len Lichtenfeld tions, most importantly how to get the best cancer: Don’t do it. voiced on his blog on Friday. medical care possible. For many, the next They may not listen. After all, the vast “We have invested over 20 years of be- logical question is how to maintain a nor- majority of men over 50 already get lief that PSA testing works. ... And here mal life with cancer — including balanc- tested. we are all of these years later, and we ing work, life and health demands. The idea that finding cancer early can don’t know for sure,” Lichtenfeld wrote. Nearly 80 percent of cancer patients and harm instead of help is a hard one to un- “We have been poked and probed, we survivors say continuing work after diag- derstand. But it’s at the heart of a gov- have been operated on by doctors and ro- nosis aids recovery, according to recently ernment panel’s draft recommendation bots, we have been radiated with fancy released survey results from nonprofit or- that those PSA blood tests should no machines, we have spent literally billions ganization Cancer and Careers and Harris longer be part of routine screening for of dollars. And what do we have? A mess Interactive. Still, many struggle to find healthy men. of false hope?” support navigating the work/life balance The U.S. Preventive Services Task Too much PSA, or prostate-specific of employment with cancer. Force examined all the evidence and antigen, in the blood only sometimes sig- For some, working through treatment is found little if any re- nals prostate cancer is not a choice, but a necessity. For others, duction in deaths from “We all agree that brewing. It also can the decision to work is made based on per- routine PSA screening. mean a benign en- sonal preferences. But it did conclude that we’ve got to do a bet- larged prostate or an Survey results showed that several fac- too many men are diag- infection. In fact, most tors motivate cancer survivors to continue nosed with tumors that ter job of figuring out men who undergo a working — including feeling well, wanting never would have biopsy for an abnormal to maintain a routine and wanting to be killed them and suffer who would benefit PSA test don’t turn out productive. At the same time, 67 percent of serious side effects to have prostate cancer. surveyed cancer patients and survivors from resulting treat- from PSA screening.” Screening often de- said work/life balance was critical to hav- ment. tects small tumors that ing a career. That recommenda- will prove too slow- Regardless of the situation, experts say tion isn’t final — it’s a growing to be deadly — that those working through or returning draft open for public Dr. Scott Eggener by one estimate, in 2 of to work following treatment have many comment. But it goes a Prostate cancer specialist n every 5 men whose can- factors to consider. step further than sev- cer is caught through a “There are many components to manage eral major cancer PSA test. But there’s no when people return to work after a cancer groups including the American Cancer way to tell in advance who needs diagnosis or treatment, including under- METRO CREATIVE CONNECTIONS Society, which urges that men be told the treatment. standing legal rights, telling co-workers, pros and cons and decide for themselves. Studies show that nearly 80 percent of cancer pa- About 1 in 6 U.S. men will be diagnosed managing treatment schedules and ad- tients continue to work after their diagnosis. Patients The new advice is sure to be hugely dressing potential resume gaps,” said Kate controversial. Already some doctors are with prostate cancer at some point. Yet who retain as much of their pre-cancer lives as possi- the cancer society notes that in Western Sweeney, executive director of Cancer and ble can find a sense of normalcy and wellbeing dur- rejecting it. European countries where screening Careers, a national nonprofit organization ing such a frightening and stressful ordeal. “We all agree that we’ve got to do a bet- dedicated to serving people working dur- ter job of figuring out who would benefit isn’t common, 1 in 10 men are diagnosed ing and after cancer treatment. tion back to work-related things so the from PSA screening. But a blanket state- and the risk of death in both places is the Sweeney offers the following tips for peo- focus isn’t always on cancer. ment of just doing away with it alto- same. In the U.S., about 217,000 men are ple transitioning back into the workplace n Rely on free resources to help make gether ... seems over-aggressive and diagnosed with prostate cancer each year, after a cancer diagnosis or treatment: the transition. For example, Cancer and irresponsible,” said Dr. Scott Eggener, a and 32,000 die. nBefore sharing your diagnosis, study Careers provides expert advice, interac- prostate cancer specialist at the Univer- Why not screen in case there’s a mor- your options. Learn about the laws that tive tools and educational events for every- sity of Chicago. tality benefit that studies have yet to tease may protect you, know your company’s one dealing with cancer in the workplace, In the exam room, explaining the flaws out? The task force outlined the problem policies and speak to your healthcare including patients, healthcare profession- in PSA testing has long been difficult. with that: team. als, human resource managers and co- “Men have been confused about this for n Up to 5 in every 1,000 men die within n Be mindful of what you say online. workers. a very long time, not just men patients a month of prostate cancer surgery, and Whatever you post becomes part of your More information on how to balance the but men doctors,” said Dr. Yul Ejnes, a between 10 and 70 more suffer serious online brand, so consider the short- and demands of work and cancer can be found Cranston, R.I., internal medicine special- complications. long-term effects of what you say and do. at www.CancerAndCareers.org. ist who chairs the American College of n At least 200 to 300 of every 1,000 men n When returning to work, ease back Whether you need to work or simply Physicians’ board of regents. treated with surgery or radiation suffer into the routine. Make sure you take care want to stay active during your treatment, He turned down his own physician’s incontinence or impotence. of yourself physically and mentally. having a plan can empower you to thrive offer of a PSA test after personally re- n Overall, Moyer said 30 percent of n Be clear with your co-workers about in the workplace and leave you with more viewing the research. men who are treated for PSA-discovered how they can support you. energy to cope with the rest of life’s “There’s this dogma ... that early detec- prostate cancer suffer significant side ef- n Be prepared to “swivel” the conversa- details. tion saves lives. It’s not necessarily true fects from the resulting treatment. ADVANTAGE CLUB CHECKING JOIN OUR CLUB! Enjoy just a few of these benefits:

• Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance¹ REGULAR BANK OUR CHECKING • Common Carrier Insurance¹ CHECKING (SPRINKLES INCLUDED) • Travel Emergency Assistance Services • Shopping & Travel • Identity Theft 911™ • Local Area Discounts • Health Benefits • Bank Benefits CONTACT US TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION OR Breast cancer affects us all. VISIT OUR WEBSITE WWW.BANKOFCADIZ.COM. It affects our mothers, sisters, wives and friends. It affects people of every age, sex and race, and is the leading cancer among white and African-American women. This October, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, 2808 Ft. Campbell Blvd pink is everyone’s color. Together Hopkinsville KY 42240 We Can First District Make A 270.885.3211 Congressman www.bankofcadiz.com Difference EdEd WhitfieldWhitfield ¹This product is Not a Deposit - Not FDIC insured - Not Insured by any Federal Government Agency - Not Guaranteed by the Bank Paid for by Whitfield for Congress, Member FDIC • Equal Housing Lender P.O. Box 391, (270) 887-1615, Hopkinsville, KY 42241-0729 C16 Friday, Oct. 17, 2014 | www.kentuckynewera.com We salute the local PinkPink RibbonRibbon Network!Network! EveryEvery RRiibbbboonn TellsTells AA SSttoorryy ...... What’s the Pink Ribbon Network all about?

BY MELONY SHEMBERGER SPECIAL TO THE NEW ERA

Nine years ago, Kathy Anderson was diagnosed with breast cancer, and she needed a support group to turn to for guidance. “I didn’t know who to talk to about a wig or about Ann Isom anything else to help me get through this,” she Pink Ribbon Network member said. Anderson was not able to find a group to meet that need, leading her to begin a new journey that would enlighten and assist others. In 2006, she formed the Pink Ribbon Network, and quickly, breast cancer patients found a place where they could seek some comfort and advice. “I get a lot of calls, many of them knowing I’ve been through breast cancer, but they also want to know more about us because either they need us or know someone who might need us,” said Ann Isom, an active member of the Pink Ribbon Network who was diagnosed with breast cancer in November 2007. Anderson and Isom attend Sunday school class together and knew each other well, even before Isom learned she had cancer. “God has a plan in everything,” Isom said. “It seems we were put together. We both have a strong desire to help other people go through the journey we have to go through.” “Attitude is 100 percent of your recovery,” Anderson said. The Pink Ribbon Network meets at 7 p.m. the first Thursday of every month at First United Methodist Church on South Main Street in downtown Hopkinsville. Meetings include guest speakers on topics beneficial to breast cancer victims. The organization also seeks to become part of community activities, such as the Western Kentucky Women’s Show, and plans events for women to enjoy and may not be related to breast cancer. “Laughter is a big part of healing. We like to do things that don’t always focus on cancer,” Isom said. Anyone wanting more information about the Pink Ribbon Network may e-mail Anderson at [email protected], Isom at [email protected] or Lisa Cunningham at [email protected]. “We try to approach people when we learn they have been diagnosed with breast cancer, but we understand that not everyone may be ready for that kind of contact,” Isom said. “We just want them to know they are not alone.”

The local “Pink Ribbon Network” Support Group meets the first Thursday of each month at First United Methodist Church on South Main Street in Hopkinsville at 7:00 p.m.