This past week, Alcorn State University students were given the chance to learn about Breast Cancer while participating in fun, engaging activities. From October 17th to October 21st, Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. celebrated their annual Breast Cancer Awareness Week entitled, ‘Brave for BoobieZ.’
Hali Peterson, Vice President of Zeta Chapter, stated, “Our week was very productive and educational and I am glad that people took the time out to join us in supporting Breast Cancer awareness.”
During the week participants were informed on the necessary aspects of Breast Cancer such as the rates of diagnosis in men and women, risk factors, survival rates and self-checking tactics. Students were also given an idea of the disease’s severity with such staggering statistics as 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with Breast Cancer in their lifetime.
On Monday, October 17th, in the Dr. Clinton Bristow Jr. Dining Facility, members of the Chapter distributed Breast Cancer symbol pins and bookmarks containing valuable information about the disease to students.
Held beside the Amenities building, Tuesday’s October 18th Breast Cancer Relay was a success. Students were able to engage in activities pertaining to “BoobieZ,” such as Bra Pong and a relay race in which participants were required to wear and stuff a makeshift bra. Attendees also enjoyed tasty treats such as cotton candy.
“Paint the Yard Pink” was held Wednesday, October 19th in front of the University cafeteria. Various students joined Chapter members in wearing pink and a Breast Cancer walk around the campus loop. Later that day, students from Alcorn State’s nursing campus in Natchez, Mississippi came to speak to their fellow classmates about self-checking tactics. Stressing the importance of catching the disease early, the nursing students presented methods of self-checking breasts to students.
The highlight of the week took place Thursday, October 20th with a Breast Cancer tea located in the Multipurpose Room of Building C. Guests enjoyed listening to Mrs. Tanya Durrell, Administrator, share her experiences as a stage three, triple negative Breast Cancer survivor. “Breast Cancer was hard, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world. It taught me so much about how to value my life. It taught me to appreciate the little things.”
Senior Keaira Smith shared, “What I learned from the tea is to get checked, take care of yourself and don’t be ashamed.”
The week was concluded on Friday, October 21st with Silent Speaks. Members of the Chapter stood outside of the campus dining facility displaying signs informing students about the disease. Donations for the National Breast Cancer Foundation were taken during the week as well.
“I think that this week gave people a lot of information. Regardless of what they knew and what they didn’t, I hope they learned something and enjoyed our events,” Chapter member, Miya Cannon stated.