October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This month marks the 25th year anniversary of national and local organizations celebrating the awareness of breast cancer. Nationally, we remember those who have walked this journey before us and those who now journey the path. The awareness has significantly contributed to saving the lives of millions of women who suffer from the devastating affects of breast cancer while also sounding the alarm that early detection saves lives. I’m proud of our trendsetters in this movement who are steadfast in the global community to find a cure through medical research. The movements are a true testament of what can happen when “believers of a cause” rally together to save lives, empower people and ensure the quality of life for all. 

 

Since my journey and personal battle with breast cancer in 2006, not one day has gone by when I did not positively reflect upon my battle with breast cancer in the year 2006 when I was diagnosed with triple-negative disease, which is common in the African American culture. Treatment options are limited with this disease. I am a conqueror who once was forced to confront the giants of fear, rejection and the long process of recovery as I came face to face with the prognosis of death and life.

 

I too will celebrate this month, my victory in being cancer free for three years and being in excellent health. More importantly, I celebrate life itself as it provides me with an opportunity to share and inspire others to Live and Not Die and to experience the awesomeness of the presence of God and His love in my life and towards others. It was through my experience, I truly learned how fragile life is.

 

Through my own journey, healing came through memorializing each stage to paper as I penned my first book, Confronting Breast Cancer, A Believer’s Journey. I knew that in order for me to survive, I needed to capture my thoughts and emotions as a testament to the power of hope. It was faith ignited and hope in God’s power to heal that pulled me through. We all will pass into eternity one day, but while we are here on earth, we need to learn how to live strong! Confronting Breast Cancer, A Believer’s Journey is a statement of faith that was crafted from the many days and months that I stood hostage to this debilitating illness. Through the pages of this powerful and poignant book, readers will be comforted by the personal insights that I vividly share regarding my experiences and be strengthened in knowing that they are not alone.

 

It’s time for the people of our nation to heal from our emotional and physical afflictions. We can do it!..even in the times of uncertainty that we live in. The Word of God teaches that hope deferred will make a heart sick. Many who suffer through life’s adversities are left with traumatizing effects. 

 

See this month as an opportunity to reflect upon how you may contribute in helping others live strong. I encourage you to join me and citizens of the Danville, VA and Yanceyville, NC area to support the Pinnacle Ministries & Studio’s “Taking A Stand Against Cancer “Weekend from Friday, October 23rd- Saturday October 24, 2009 at 336 W. Main Street, Studio B, Yanceyville, NC.   The theme is “Unleasing Hope and Healing”. The church, community officials, representatives and representatives from the marketplace will come united with one purpose to increase awareness by gaining profound insight into lifestyle changes to reduce the risk factors, and gain access to resources that will assist those who are now battling various types of cancer and those who support them. You can also join Alfreida and Bonita W. Shelby, CCA of Divine Health Choices at the Danville Public Library on Friday, October 23rd from 11:30am-1pm as they facilitate a lunch and learn presentation called “ Cancer, Taking A Stand and Beyond”; a book signing for Confronting Breast Cancer, A Believer’s Journey will follow the presentation.

 

 

 

The Author: Alfreida Edelen

 

In her newly released book, Confronting Breast Cancer, A Believer’s Journey, Alfreida Edelen shares how some of your greatest challenges can lead to your greatest joys. Alfreida received her ministry training at Jericho Christian Training College and formal training in pastoral counseling through the American Association for Christian Counselors. She has served in core ministerial leadership capacities for over 13 years. Her public speaking and ministerial pursuits include workshops, conferences and services for family and women. To learn more visit: www.abelieversjourney.com or for speaking engagements contact Public Relations Manager Thelma Ferguson (434) 489-2411.