MUSC Hosts Annual Breast Cancer Survivors Expo in Charleston
The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) held its 4th annual Breast Cancer Survivors Expo today, connecting those impacted by the disease with vital resources and support networks.
The event, held at MUSC’s Wellness Center in Charleston, South Carolina, brought together Lowcountry businesses and organizations offering services ranging from genetic testing information and wellness brands to custom breast prosthetics. Breast cancer survivor Birdie Chaplin emphasized the importance of perseverance, stating, “You have to be strong and you can’t give up. And just because they say you have cancer, that don’t mean that it’s a death wish.” Early detection and ongoing support are critical, as breast cancer remains the most common cancer in American women.
MUSC Clinical Exercise Program Coordinator Cindi Day explained the expo aims to “bridge that gap between survivors completing their treatment and then going into everyday life and feeling strong and healthy.” Attendees received a free lunch and heard from a licensed dietitian about the role of nutrition and exercise in both health maintenance and cancer prevention. Alala owner Sherry Norris noted, “It is not something that is talked about a lot of times at the doctor’s office as far as continuum of care, as far as the survivorship and to make sure that we’re meeting those needs.” For more information on survivorship programs, visit the American Cancer Society’s survivorship page.
Survivors also used the event as an opportunity to share experiences and advocate for greater awareness. Yasheca Smith encouraged fellow survivors to “Love who you are now because this is your new life. Embrace it. Be bold, be you. Also, advocate. Don’t be afraid to speak up.” The expo is open to the public annually, regardless of cancer status, to provide resources for anyone seeking information or support.
Officials stated the event will continue to be offered each year to meet the growing needs of breast cancer survivors and their families.
