Harris Health Shines Light on Hope: Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2025
By Francis Page, Jr.
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October 27, 2025 (Houston Style Magazine) — When Ava H. discovered a benign (noncancerous) tumor nearly a decade ago, she never imagined that years later she would face the words no woman wants to hear: “You have breast cancer.” With no family history and no symptoms beyond that routine check, her diagnosis in December 2012 revealed both stage 0 and stage 2b cancer in her left breast.
Determined to fight back, Ava underwent a left breast mastectomy and began chemotherapy at Harris Health Ben Taub Hospital in May 2013. Her journey was long, but her spirit never faltered. Today, Ava stands not only as a survivor but as an advocate—traveling more, living fully, and inspiring others to prioritize early detection and regular screenings.
“You don’t think it can happen to you—until it does,” Ava shared. “That’s why I speak up now. Early detection truly saves lives.”
Harris Health’s Lifesaving Mission
This October, Harris Health System proudly observed Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2025 with a community-driven campaign focused on education, empowerment, and early detection. Through a robust lineup of free screenings, educational outreach, and survivor stories, Harris Health continues to be a beacon of hope for countless women and families across Harris County.
Their monthlong awareness initiative combined clinical access with community action, ensuring that every woman—regardless of zip code or income—has the chance to take control of her health.
Harris Health’s Community Impact
Free Screenings: In partnership with Harris County Public Health (HCPH), Harris Health offered free breast cancer screenings at multiple clinics, including Humble, Southeast, Antoine, East, and Northeast Harris County Precinct 2 Access2Health Smart Pods™, as well as through a mobile health unit.
Education & Awareness: Harris Health launched educational campaigns with interactive quizzes, breast health resources, and workshops to empower women with knowledge about the importance of early detection.
Community Events: The health system hosted community health fairs, fitness challenges, and the annual 5K Run/Walk for Awareness, uniting survivors, families, and healthcare heroes in the spirit of solidarity.
Inspiring Stories: Across social media, Harris Health amplified real survivor stories—like Ava’s—to remind women everywhere that breast cancer doesn’t define you but fighting it can inspire others to act.
Collaborative Partnerships: By working with local health departments, nonprofits, and advocacy organizations, Harris Health extended its reach to Houston’s most underserved communities, ensuring that every woman has the opportunity to receive timely, compassionate care.
Key Message: Early Detection Saves Lives
The campaign underscored a powerful truth: early detection is the key to survival. Women over 40 are encouraged to schedule their annual mammograms and talk to their healthcare providers about screening options.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month isn’t just about pink ribbons—it’s about prevention, access, and community care. It’s about celebrating survivors like Ava, supporting those still in treatment, and remembering those we’ve lost.
Join the Movement
Harris Health invites Houstonians to continue spreading awareness year-round—because breast health is not just a month-long conversation, it’s a lifelong commitment.
Let’s stand together, Houston. Get screened. Stay informed. Be an advocate for someone you love.
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Francis Page Jrfpagejr@gmail.com7139275444