Fighting the Fight

The whole month of October is dedicated to breast cancer. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in American women, in fact 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in the United States according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Men have a 1 in 1000 chance to get breast cancer. In the United States, there is over 3.5 million breast cancer survivors. This month is used to educate people about what breast cancer is and what to look for. This is also a time to honor those who have died from breast cancer or to celebrate the survivors. Throughout America, multiple different types of fundraisers happen during October to try and raise money for finding a cure and supporting victims. Due to all of these fundraisers, death rates from breast cancer have declined since 1990. 

Peggy Dickerson was diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2008 at the age of 70. Dickerson said that if it wasn’t for her family support and her faith she would’ve struggled much more. She has attended multiple different fundraisers to help raise money for those fighting the fight now or has the lost the battle. Dickerson’s favorite fundraiser is the “Bosom Buddies Walk in Montrose.” 

The Bosom Buddies walk was held at Montrose Pavilion on October 12. The money donated towards the walk is then later donated to help pay for diagnostic tests, doctors’ fees, and for any support the family needs. This year it was the 27th annual walk with the motto: “One Step Closer to Help and Hope.” 

Peggy Dickerson was not able to attend the walk this year, due to being sick, but she instead attended the “Pink Out Night” for the Delta High School volleyball team. “It is special because we can watch them play and receive a flower.” 

Dickerson’s advice for everyone is to “always get your mammogram, take care of yourself, and live life to the fullest each day.”