Sister Cheryl Attends Annual Cancer Awareness Event: “Early Detection. Informed Prevention. Collective Empowerment.”

Brother Levon X
Oct 29
3 min read

This past weekend, Sister Cheryl represented our community at an annual Cancer Awareness Event at the Bolton N.C Senior / Youth Center —an educational, emotionally moving gathering designed to empower women with knowledge,

resources, and life-saving information.

Each year, attendance should grow, because the more women who show up, the more lives can be saved. Awareness is not enough—action is required.

The Message: Breast Cancer Is Not a Stranger

During the event, medical experts reminded attendees that you do not need a family history of breast cancer to be diagnosed. Breast cancer can impact women of all ages, backgrounds, and lifestyles.

Most doctors recommend yearly screenings starting at age 40, and insurance will typically cover one mammogram between ages 35–40—especially if there is family history. Men can also get breast cancer, though the percentage is very low (approximately 1%).

The Speakers

Keynote Speaker: Dr. LaToya Beatty
Testimonial from a daughter who lost her mother due to delayed screening
Two survivors sharing their stories of victory
A mother navigating her daughter’s breast cancer journey

One testimony in particular shook the room.A survivor shared that she declined chemotherapy and instead committed herself entirely to faith, nutrition, and exercise.

“I refused to eat anything dead, because I wasn’t dead,” she said, explaining how she chose fruits, vegetables, apples, salads, and prayer.

While treatment decisions are deeply personal and medical guidance is always essential, her testimony revealed something powerful:belief, discipline, and lifestyle matter.

Prevention Begins Before a Diagnosis

Sister Cheryl returned with information that should spark real conversations in every household:

What we eat can influence our fight against cancer.

Researchers and naturopathic health practitioners stress that cancer prevention begins in daily habits, not just doctor visits.

Foods that Support the Body:

Leafy greens — rich in carotenoids and antioxidants
Garlic and onions — help reduce inflammation
Whole grains and olive oil — support heart and hormone health
Fresh fruits and vegetables — fuel cellular repair
Increase physical activity and regular exercise

Foods to Avoid or Reduce:

Processed foods
Processed red meats and pork
Excess sugar (causes inflammation)
Alcohol consumption
Heavy fried or chemically preserved foods

Fasting—when done safely—may improve metabolic function, insulin control, and reduce inflammation.This is why working with a qualified naturopathic doctor who studies the entire body—not just symptoms—is essential.

The Reality for Black Women

According to research from the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, breast cancer affects Black women differently compared to other ethnic groups. Black women are:

More likely to be diagnosed at a later stage
More likely to have aggressive forms of breast cancer
Less likely to have adequate health insurance or access to follow-up care
More likely to experience obesity and related conditions like hypertension and diabetes

Although cancer does not discriminate, access to care does.

This event became more than an information session—it was a wake-up call.

“We can’t wait until something happens to start caring.”

This annual gathering must grow year after year. Every empty chair represents someone who didn’t hear life-saving information. Sister Cheryl’s attendance is not just participation—it is leadership.

Let this be the conversation in our homes:

Are we eating to live?
When was our last mammogram or screening?
Are we treating our bodies like we plan to be here?

Call to Action

Schedule your yearly screening.
Encourage a sister, mother, daughter, or friend to go with you.
Prioritize nutrition, exercise, and emotional wellness.
Share what you learned.

We don’t have to be reactive—we can be proactive. Health is not a reaction… health is a responsibility.