October 7, 2011
It's the diagnosis that no one ever wants to receive, but it's one that an estimated 1.3 million people must face every year.
Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer in the world today, striking women and men of every age and race.
For now, there is no cure...but the race to find one continues each and every day.
In association with Susan G. Komen for the Cure Southern Arizona, Arizona Public Media presents Voices for the Cure, an opportunity for some of the hundreds of thousands of people whose lives and loved ones have been touched by breast cancer to share their individual stories of survival, courage, and hope.
These people and their loved ones are so much more than just statistics.
Photo: Matt Felix
Family physician and cancer survivor Dr. Marty Giles and his wife, Robin
When breast cancer strikes, even someone with a doctor's training may have to go through a process of acceptance to face the facts. And, men need to be just as vigilant as women for the early warning signs.
Breast cancer survivor Dr. Marty Giles went through the most difficult experience of his life with help from his wife Robin, as well as their two young children and an extended group of family and friends. Here, the Giles share some personal memories of what happened ten years ago...
Listen:
Photo: Matt Felix
Tori Crisione and Sherri Hitchings
BRCA-1, deleterious mutations, and double mastectomies - fighting your cancer means having to learn a new language, and making the hardest decisions of your life.
Cancer survivors Sherri Hitchings and Tori Crisione stand together bravely and deliver some very straight talk, sharing perspectives on the things that they both gained - and lost - from the tough choices that saved their lives...
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Photo: Matt Felix
Janice Welchert and her mother, Rosemarie
Sometimes, upon receiving a diagnosis of cancer, the hardest part can feel like how to tell your family.
Janice Welchert received her diagnosis in June of 2007, which was less than a year after the death of her sister Marian from a different kind of breast cancer. But, using Marian's example, Janice was able to face the whirlwind of emotions that every cancer patient must confront with both bravery and grace. Here, she shares her memories of the experience with her mother, Rosemarie...
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Photo: Matt Felix
Craig Fones and his mother, Genice
About 1% of all breast cancers occur in men, but often an array of societal factors can prevent them from acknowledging the threat, or even seeking treatment when the time comes.
After receiving his diagnosis, Ken Fones, a school counselor, coach, and local businessman, made it part of his purpose in life to spread the word that it's not just women who are stricken with the disease. Ken died in October, 2010, but here his son Craig and wife Genice carry on Ken's mission by sharing their own moving story of love and loss...
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October is breast cancer awareness month. Susan G. Komen for the Cure Southern Arizona offers comprehensive information about breast cancer risk factors, early detection and screening, and diagnosis and treatment.
Special thanks to producer Matt Felix for his work on this series.
Matt, thank you for allowing us to present our message "for the cure" on Ken's behalf.
You did a great job!
What a beautiful job you have done! I stand clapping for you...you have touched out lives.
Matt, thanks for doing a great job! We both stand clapping for you; keep it up and we'll dance for the cure!
As Ken's 1st cousin, and a 5 year survivor of breast cancer, I applaud you, Genice and Craig (for continuing Ken's message)! I was with Ken (prior to his surgery), and everyday throughout his courageous battle...up to his last breath. As I told Ken...."Ken, you are my hero"! Miss you so much.. Cuz Joanne
As a member of Tori's support group, I first hand saw the Amazing courage Tori had every single day, and know just how strong cancer survivors are and their sharing after can do for other who may be going through similar experiences. So Tori keep on sharing , and the rest of us continue to be inspired by your resolve.
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Thank you Matt for doing a fantastic job in producing this segment. It honors my Dad greatly.