The Charleston Job Corps Center (CJCC) operating under Horizons Youth Services (HYS) hosted its 5th Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Day on October 12, 2015 during Monday Business Meeting. Our guest speaker was Ann Wheeler, Women’s Image Technical Lead at Thomas Health Systems. Students and staff listened to the presentation in the center gymnasium.

Wheeler said, “The number one risk of breast cancer is simply being female.” She talked about the importance of self-exams, visiting your primary care physician, early detection and various types of breast cancer. Wheeler spoke about the genetic genes for breast cancer and the importance of knowing your family health history.

Tia Welch, Business Community Liaison said “Annually we host speakers and events to educate and inform students and staff on ways to increase health and wellness, so we greatly appreciate having Ann Wheeler from Thomas Health Systems with us today.” Wheeler informed the audience that, “early detection is still the number one way to fight breast cancer. The earlier we can catch it the better your treatment options.”

Also, information on getting enough calcium in the diet to prevent osteoporosis later in life was mentioned. On behalf of the students and staff, Welch presented a “Fight like a Girl” pink goodie bag to the speaker. The center will host a Go Pink Day later this month and make a donation to breast cancer. Women have many responsibilities and fulfill many roles, so we encourage you to take time this month to take care of you. Get your mammograms!CJCC Breast Cancer Presentation-Ann Wheeler