By MOLLIE BROWN / Community Columnist

South Shelby Baptist Learning Center helped raise awareness of the fight against breast cancer in a Wednesday worship service Oct. 3.

In cooperation with Calera Goes Pink, students wore pink and gave $120 in change for breast cancer research.

“The money will be donated to the Susan G. Komen Foundation,” Director Wendy Pierce said. “During the service we recognized Miss Marlene and Miss Bonnie, members of our church and volunteers at the learning center, who have survived breast cancer. Kids aren’t immune from cancer and they need to be aware of the disease.”

Marlene Cross is a 16-year breast cancer survivor. “I thank God everyday for the healing I got,” McMasters said. “I didn’t sit down and give up because I lost my breast. I stayed positive and was determined I’d beat it. I want to encourage anyone going through this now to do the same.”

Bonnie McMaster was diagnosed with breast cancer five years ago. “I’ve never thought of myself as a victim, but as a survivor,” McMasters said. “What we’re doing with the children today is making them aware of the disease. They have no concept of the disease, but are excited to give to help people feel better. We’ve got to find a cure so they don’t have to go through this.”

According to the American Cancer Society, one in 1,000 men will get breast cancer as compared to one in eight women. McMasters said it is unfortunate men diagnosed with breast cancer have “feelings of embarrassment.”

Anna Kate Lawley, 3, wore a pink ribbon on her shirt and put change in the bucket because “Mommy said somebody’s sick.”

Corban Snyder, 3, wasn’t entirely sure why he wore a pink ribbon or brought change, but his daddy works “to buy some more money.”

The learning center, located on Alabama 25 next to CVS, is a non-profit ministry of South Shelby Baptist Church. The year-round program, offered to children six weeks to 10 years, is open weekdays 5:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.

 

Mollie Brown can be reached at dmjhb1@bellsouth.net.