Pink ribbon luncheon draws large crowd | News

CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO (IKFVS)- It's the second most diagnosed, and second most deadly form of cancer.

According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer affects one in eight women.

During the month of October, the spotlight is on this tough topic that touches so many of us.

There was a full house Wednesday afternoon for the ninth annual Pink Ribbon Breast Cancer Awareness Luncheon in Cape Girardeau.

It was all part of Saint Francis Medical Center's Pink Up Cape Campaign. It's all about empowering women with knowledge, and hope.

Participants learned more than 97% of those diagnosed will beat the disease if detected early.

Doctors say it's so important for all women over 40 to get annual mammograms.

There were several survivors in attendance, including Carolyn Wright of Jackson who was diagnosed in 2010.

"I was near death, and today I feel great," said Wright. "The important thing is to get up everyday and live life to the fullest."

Money raised at Wednesday's event goes to toward the Dig for Life program

It started in 2000 by former college volleyball coach Cindy Gannon in memory of her mother.

Every year it provides nearly 400 mammograms for local women who otherwise could not afford them.

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