By Samuel Medina III/ south news editor
Early detection is key to cancer survival, which is why the African-American Student Organization program is raising awareness on South Campus.
Many people never think about cancer, but some may have it and not know it. That is why AASO sponsor De’Shun Jackson started Pink Out on South Campus to raise awareness for breast cancer.
“This is absolutely the first time Pink Out has been done at TCC South Campus,” she said. “One thing AASO wants to focus on this year is awareness to college students.”
About 12 percent of women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, and some will go untreated. Jackson said early prevention can start by doing self-examinations, eating healthy and exercising daily.
“Although breast cancer is related to genetics, those individuals don’t really know they have any form of breast cancer until they are mid-40s,” she said. “If we bring awareness to college students, maybe early detection will be taken more seriously.”
South students spread awareness by wearing pink on Thursdays for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
“My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007. She had to have a mastectomy,” Jackson said. “But because of early detection, she is now cancer free.”
Jackson said when her mother had to get a mastectomy, she asked her how she felt about losing a part of her femininity.
“Baby girl, I am 73,” Jackson’s mother said. “My husband is deceased. I really don’t need these breasts anyways.”
Breast Cancer Awareness Month forms a sense of community for those who have been impacted by the disease and those fighting for a cure. Breast cancer affects both men and women across the world, even on South Campus.
South student Charlotte Watson said her cousin was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013 and that the love and support her family gets is incredible.
“I always try to take part in stuff like breast cancer walks to help raise money and even simple things like wearing pink to raise awareness,” she said. “I think it’s awesome the school is finally doing something for breast cancer month. Whether they have it personally or a loved one does, breast cancer really does affect a lot of people.”
South student Evan Bornes said he lost his grandmother to breast cancer when he was young.
“I remember her always having the biggest smile on her face,” he said. “There was no getting rid of that smile. Cancer or not, nothing could bring her down.”
Bornes said cancer does not only affect the body but also the people who love them.
“It’s tough to see something like that happen to someone you love,” he said. “She’s the toughest person I’ve ever met. But it was time. She needed her rest.”
Jackson hopes that the district office will make Pink Out an initiative across all of the campuses, not just South.
