Horizons Youth Services

Early Detection, Education and Intervention are important keys to fighting breast cancer

That was the message that students and staff at the Charleston Job Corps Center heard at its 4th Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Event Oct. 22. The event was held in honor of October Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Female staff and students listened to a presentation by Alyshia Harris, a registered nurse at Thomas Memorial Hospital and breast cancer survivor. “This disease does not discriminate. It does not care about your race, age or gender,” she said. She also stressed the importance of doing self-exams, mammograms and early detection.  Harris, who credits her family and friends for their support and encouragement, noted that attitude is crucial in fighting the disease. “I was determined to beat cancer. I have so much to live for.”

Tia Welch, business community liaison at Charleston Job Corps, said Charleston Job Corps has hosts this event each year “because we want our students and staff to be informed about the disease, and the importance of self-exams and making healthy lifestyle choices.”  Wellness Manager Sherri Holstein reminded students and staff that “early detection, education and intervention of breast cancer save lives.”  Center Director Willie Brown said, “Breast cancer is a very devastating disease, but it can be overcome.  As a center we want to support our breast cancer survivors as best we can.”

On behalf of the Charleston Job Corps Center, Welch and students from the Ladies of Excellence group presented a check to Alyshia Harris for the Thomas Memorial Hospital Foundation Pink Ribbon Fund.  Following the presentation 100 students and staff walked the track and released pink and white balloons recognizing those who have succumbed to the disease.

A special thanks to guest speaker Alyshia Harris; Sandy Young, RN, Thomas Memorial Hospital; and Hometown Sportswear for the customized t-shirts.

Pictured left to right, Bryanna Watson, Tia Welch, Alyshia Harris and Jaquai Felton.