Breast cancer warriors share their stories

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to encourage screening and remind people to pay attention to changes in their health.

According to the American Cancer Society, more than two million women worldwide are diagnosed with breast cancer each year.

Julie Dance, a certified nurse-midwife specializing in women's health at Onvida Health, said annual wellness visits are an opportunity to discuss breast health and recommended screenings.

She also encourages people to contact their health-care provider if they notice a change or something doesn't feel right, rather than waiting for their next appointment.

Yuma resident Claudia Rodriguez knows how important it is to speak up. At 32, she didn't expect to have breast cancer, especially without a family history of the disease.

After a co-worker encouraged her to get checked, Rodriguez was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma. She underwent chemotherapy and a mastectomy, with support from her family and partner.

Rodriguez now shares her experience to raise awareness and encourage others to check their health.

Breast cancer survivor Lori Roy also turned her experience into a way to help others. Diagnosed in 2018 at age 48, Roy documented her journey through poetry and writing. That work became her book, "Four Stages," which explores diagnosis and surgery, treatment, recovery, and grief and acceptance.

Both women urge people facing cancer to seek support and be kind to themselves. Their stories also carry a shared reminder: If something doesn’t feel right, reach out to a healthcare provider.