Nearly 1 in 8 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime (American Cancer Society, 2025). Since Breast Cancer Awareness Month launched in 1989, breast cancer death rates in the United States have dropped by 44%. Awareness encourages millions to take action, resulting in increased early detection and advancements in treatment that have saved more than half a million lives.
Pictured: Felishia and Rebecca
Easterseals PORT Health is very proud to highlight our very own survivors, Felishia and Rebecca!
Felishia, a Compliance and Licensing Specialist, shares, “Breast cancer awareness is important to me because I am a survivor. I was diagnosed in September 2019 with Stage 2 ductal carcinoma/HER2-positive breast cancer. After a year of chemo and radiation, I’m grateful to be cancer free for 5 years this October. I’ll still take medication for 10 years, but God is good!”
Rebecca, a Registered Nurse for Assertive Community Treatment (ACT), shares, “I wear pink because I’m a survivor. In 2008, I was diagnosed with an aggressive stage 3B breast cancer and given about a 15% chance of survival. But I’m here and cancer free 17 years later!”
Felishia and Rebecca’s strength and resilience remind us of the importance of supporting survivors and raising awareness. Even though it’s more common in women, breast cancer awareness is important for both men and women to promote early detection and research. Key awareness points include knowing your normal breast tissue, being aware of symptoms like lumps or skin changes (in men and women) and understanding risk factors that include family history and certain gene mutations like BRCA2.
ABOUT US
Easterseals PORT Health is a trustworthy, compassionate partner providing exceptional disability, mental health and substance use services to help our neighbors live their best lives. Purpose, dedication and empathy drive our in-person and telehealth service delivery. Our diverse and inclusive 2,600 member team provides more than 10.2 million hours of meaningful support to 40,200 kids, adults and families in 11,000 home, facility and community locations across North Carolina and Virginia. Learn more at eastersealsPORT.com.
