Community Steps Out In Support Of Breast Cancer Awareness

By Janet Cruz

Community members, cancer survivors and supporters gathered at the Annual Breast Cancer Awareness event hosted by the Cancer Association of Havasu and the Bosom Buddies group at Rotary Beach Park Saturday.

The walk is in it’s 25th year, and is a significant source of funding for the Cancer Association of Havasu’s low-cost mammogram screening program in Lake Havasu City. The event also honors cancer survivors and fighters within the cancer support group Bosom Buddies and all who have been affected by cancer. Many walked in support of a loved one.

“I have always supported this cause every year,” said Havasu resident and participant Lenea Shaver. “A few years ago, my friend got diagnosed with breast cancer and thankfully is now a survivor so when I walk now it has more meaning to me.”

Free coffee, from Human Bean Coffee was provided to participants, along with grab bags, pins and T-shirts for sale were available. A proclamation was also presented by Mayor Cal Sheehy alongside council members during a rally before the walk began.

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

“I, Cal Sheehy, Mayor of Lake Havasu City, herby proclaim the month of October 2023 Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Lake Havasu City. I urge all citizens to support cancer survivors and join in awareness activities to help prevent, detect and treat cancers of all forms,” Sheehy said.

Bosom Buddies is a support group for Breast Cancer Survivors that also works to spread awareness led by Carol Ferrell and is available to all survivors. The group is under the Community Health Foundation and Cancer Association of Havasu Umbrella. The group works to raise funds and awareness of the importance of annual mammograms and in early detection of breast cancer.

For more information on low cost mammograms or the Bosom Buddies support group, contact Carol Ferrell at the Havasu Community Health Foundation office at 928-453-8190.