When Pink Ribbons aren't Enough

Today marks, not just the end of October and Halloween, but the end of Breast Cancer Awareness month.

By now many if not most of you know about the loss suffered by our reporter, Mark Mulholland. His wife Kelly lost her 3 year long battle with breast cancer earlier this month. She had just turned 37 and left behind 2 young children.

In a case like this it would seem all the pink ribbons and walks aren't enough. But that would be missing the importance of the work that's been done and continues.
A few weeks before Kelly passed there was a little gathering she was able to attend. After saying hi the next thing she said to me was "I'm still here".
That she could say that so far into her battle was a victory in itself. 10 years ago the disease would have claimed her life much earlier. That's little comfort for those who love her .. but it gives heart to all those working for a cure.

There's a new study out from a researcher with the American Society for Therapeutic Radiation and Oncology. Although it hasn't been reviewed yet it's worth attention. It finds African American women are at higher risk for recurrence after localized treatment ie: lumpectomy. What this means is, these women need to stay in close contact with their physician and their physician needs to be extra attentive to their patients.

The passing of Kelly struck us all hard here at WNYT. She was a woman of grace and resiliency, compassion and faith, kind and fun.
I know we'll continue to help those battling breast cancer - I hope you consider doing the same.