A Pink Celebration which was held October 31, 2020 at the Louisville Coliseum was high spirited and very inspirational for 2020. Janice Turner, founder and organizer was successful in bringing a group of women and men together to celebrate being a breast cancer survivor or to seek support as a newly diagnosed breast cancer victim. Unfortunately, there were four women who were recently diagnosed with breast cancer. It was amazing to see the support that the group gave to the new women. They cried together, they laughed together and together they decided that it was time to start a Louisville Support Group for Breast Cancer. A location has been found and Neishelle Hoskins Jordan was named as leader. The support group is considering naming itself The Pink Patrol. Janice Turner welcomed the group to the celebration and acted as program mover. She took the opportunity to thank all of the sponsors, Jason Stewart for the stage and sound system, Todd McCullough, Sherry Tubby, Gwen Jordon, Elmetra Patterson, her family, her church family Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church and her Native American Family. Janice also, thanked Deidre Tubby for her inspirations musical selections which included ‘Rise Up” which was sung by Andra Day and written by Cassandra Monique Batie/Jennifer Decliveo. Rev. Robert Sangster of Agape Baptist Church, Louisville, MS offered a powerful prayer of healing. Janice asked that donations be made to American Cancer Society, the Susan G. Komen for the Cure or to St. Jude’s Hospital. Donations can be taken to MS Farm Bureau, 355 North Court Avenue, Louisville, MS. Being that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, RN Jean Jimmerson presented the ABCs of Breast Cancer. She spoke about symptoms, diagnosis, self exams, various treatments and caregivers. She emphasized that early detection usually allows for a good prognosis. Also, that the most recognized symptom of breast cancer is a lump or mass in the breast tissue, however, every woman or man should be aware of other changes to the breast or nipples. Neishelle Hopkins Jordan shared her story with the group. She was diagnosed with stage 3.5 breast cancer in 2012 by Dr. Methvin of the Breast Health and Imaging Clinic, Columbus, MS. Her treatment consisted of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Neishelle stated, “Although I have always had faith in God Almighty, being diagnosed with breast cancer back in 2012 caused me to realize that when we are stricken with a disease of such, that standing firm on God’s Word and leaning and depending on Him to see us through is really all we have to do.” Neishelle is presently in remission. She stated that God blessed her with a new home after her home was destroyed in the EF4 Tornado in 2014 to go along with a thankful and humble heart. Other breast cancer testimonies were by Juanita Hornsburger, Charles Hampton and Melanie Benn. A memorial tribute and prayer was offered by Rev. Dennis Jackson of Mt. Talley Missionary Baptist Church, Philadelphia, MS. Pink and white balloons were released by the Pink Patrol which consisted of breast cancer survivors. Janice ended the celebration by stating, “Breast cancer or any cancer takes everyone’s help and compassion. Let’s continue to embrace, encourage and love one another. You may see us struggle but you will never see us quit. Awareness is power.” For more information regarding donations and the support group, please contact Janice Turner, 662.705-1006. (All photos courtesy of Elmetra Patterson)
