Morgantown goes "pink" to fight breast cancer

Tue, 10/26/2021 - 12:10pm — John Embry

The 10th Annual Turn Morgantown Pink event was held on the courthouse lawn on Sunday afternoon, October 24. Emcee Becky Hankins, a cancer survivor, welcomed everyone; survivor Kimberly Moore gave the opening invocation.

Dr. Cabrera, an oncologist from the new Breast Clinic at the Medical Center at Bowling Green, was one of several speakers.

"The Medical Center is dedicated to getting individuals a quicker diagnosis which leads to earlier treatment," said Cabrera.

Survivor Margaret Ann Huff shared her journey with breast cancer. She stressed the importance of mammograms and early detection.

"My family and friends were with me through every step," said Huff.

She joked about her wigs and prosthesis and shared how she always got her treatments on Friday so she would be able to go to work on Monday. Huff encouraged others going through the battle to keep fighting and offered her support to anyone in need.

Rachel Hinton recognized the survivors and Audrey Pendley presented each with a pink rose.

Survivors included: Nina Henderson, Betty Ladewig, Carol Law, Kara Saye, Tina Porter, Patty Glass, Linda Pendley, Donna Embry, Carlon Pendley, Kay Coots, Betty Grubb, Kyllie Doughty, Shanna Drake, Kim Moore, and Margaret Huff.

Each survivor shared a small part of their journey, and all stressed the importance of mammograms.

Diane Dyer read the names of those who have lost their battle with breast cancer.

"We would like to remember Virginia Russ, Donnie Deel, Redell Cardwell, Melita White, Delton Hatcher, Lola Dockery, Susie Williams, Shirley Embry, Kay Scarbeau, Ersley Amos (Colon), and Jennie Vaughn Drake, " said Dyer.

Family members received a white rose and balloon. The balloons were released after a moment of silence, while Maggie Drake sang "How Great Thou Art."

In closing, Hankins shared the following thought: "I look forward to the day when little girls will grow up in a world where PINK RIBBONS are only for ponytails and prom dresses."