On October 12th, in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I participated in the yearly "Walk for Life and Famously Hot Pink Half Marathon" in Columbia, South Carolina.
This walk holds a deep personal significance for me because I did it in honor of my mother, who lost her battle to breast cancer in 1995 at the age of 45. I was just 16 at the time, and now, at 45 myself, I find it surreal that I’ve reached the age she was when she passed.
Reaching this milestone is a powerful reminder of both grief and gratitude. I am filled with a sense of victory—not only for myself but also for my sister, who has also reached this age.
We consider this a mark of triumph over the pain and loss we’ve experienced. Spiritually, this moment feels like a punch to the devil's face—a defiant celebration of life and survival. But on a more practical level, it’s also a reminder of the importance of regular health checks.
Early detection can make all the difference, and it's vital to stay on top of screenings.
Breast cancer continues to affect millions of people worldwide. In the U.S. alone, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, with over 297,000 new cases expected in 2024. Men are also affected, with about 2,800 cases diagnosed each year.
Breast cancer diagnosis rates vary significantly across different ethnic groups in the United States, as highlighted in the Breast Cancer Facts & Figures 2023-2024 report by the American Cancer Society. The disparities in incidence and mortality rates reflect differences in access to healthcare, genetic factors, and social determinants of health.
For example, Caucasian women have the highest overall diagnosis rate at 129.2 cases per 100,000, yet face lower mortality rates due to earlier detection and better treatment access. African American women, with an incidence rate of 127.8 per 100,000, experience higher mortality rates, often due to later-stage diagnoses and more aggressive cancer types. Hispanic women are diagnosed less frequently (99.1 per 100,000), but often at later stages, leading to poorer outcomes.
Asian American women have an incidence rate of 94.7 per 100,000, though certain subgroups, like Japanese and Filipino women, see higher rates. Meanwhile, American Indian and Alaska Native women have the lowest incidence, around 80.6 per 100,000, yet they also face challenges with access to timely care. These statistics emphasize the need for targeted healthcare efforts to ensure equitable access to screening, treatment, and support across all ethnic groups.
Today, I didn’t walk for myself. I walked for my mother and for all the women and men who have battled breast cancer, whether they’ve survived or not.
If you’ve lost someone to breast cancer, you know the pain that comes with watching them suffer. I still remember caring for my mom—bathing her and helping her with her hair—and those memories remain etched in my heart.
I’m so proud of the progress we've made in the fight against breast cancer and the funds raised during events like today. If you’re ever in the area, I encourage you to join this walk. It’s more than just a marathon—it’s a tribute, a victory, and a way to keep hope alive. Or, take part in special fundraiser events like this in your local area. Your support goes a long way!
Love you, Momma—this one was for you!
Minnina Smith
Coach | Mentor | Writer | Author | Future Therapist
"Healing is not just about mending the past; it’s about growing through the pain and emerging stronger, with a renewed sense of purpose." - M. Smith
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