October: Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women, and it is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women. Each year, it is estimated that more than 220,000 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer, and more than 40,000 will die. Statistics indicate that one in eight women will develop breast cancer at some point in their lives. The impact of this disease is undeniable, which is why each year, the U.S. recognizes October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

To commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Del Sol Medical Center hosted a balloon release ceremony to honor patients and survivors. White balloons were released to honor patients who have lost their lives to breast cancer, and pink balloons were released to celebrate the lives of those who have survived.

Fifteen-year breast cancer survivor Ceci Ann Medina served as a guest speaker. She had a long-standing family history of the disease—three of her grandparents, including her grandfather, had been diagnosed with breast cancer—and she had a benign tumor removed at the age of 14. In 2000, at the age of 35, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent chemotherapy and radiation treatment, and eventually underwent a mastectomy and breast reconstruction.

Ceci is now an advocate for breast cancer awareness, and she urges those around her to listen to their body and go in for routine doctor visits. She hopes to support breast cancer patients and survivors, and also to motivate them to live life to the fullest.

To schedule a mammogram and/or to learn more about the importance of breast screenings, please contact Del Sol Women’s Health Center at (915) 593-5108 or Las Palmas Women’s Health Center at (915) 521-1200.

El Diario de El Paso recently shared news about the balloon release.