MCHD takes part in Walking in Victory event 10.17.2023

October 17, 2023

MCHD takes part in Walking in Victory event

MOBILE, Ala. – The Mobile County Health Department (MCHD) was present Saturday for the fifth annual “Walking in Victory” breast cancer awareness fashion show and concert. The event, which took place at the Mobile Marriott Hotel on Airport Boulevard, was sponsored by Bethesda Christian Center.

Breast cancer survivors and local community members took to the runway, showing their unwavering support for those battling breast cancer and survivors. Dr. Stephanie Woods-Crawford, Executive Director of the MCHD’s Prevention and Wellness directorate, was among those who shared their story about surviving breast cancer and modeled for the event, walking in memory of her cousin who lost her battle with breast cancer, family members in remission, and for herself.

Dr. Woods-Crawford’s story focused on her journey as a survivor and the importance of regular self-examinations, clinical breast exams, and mammograms, which can significantly improve the chances of survival and reduce the impact of this devastating disease.

Other than skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women. Each year in the United States, about 264,000 women get breast cancer, and 42,000 women die from the disease.

Screenings take place daily at all locations for Family Health, the primary care division of the Mobile County Health Department. In observance of National Breast Cancer Awareness, special celebrations are planned at these locations:

• October 25 – North Mobile Health Center (950 Coy Smith Highway in Mount Vernon)
• October 26 – Downtown Health Center (251 North Bayou Street in Mobile), Women’s Health Center (248 Cox Street in Mobile), Southwest Mobile Health Center (5580 Inn Road in Mobile), Dauphin Island Parkway Health Center (2601 Dauphin Island Parkway in Mobile), Citronelle Health Center (19250 North Mobile Street), Semmes Health Center (3810 Wulff Road East)
• October 27 – Mobile Medical Unit II at the Thomas Sullivan Community Center (351 North Catherine Street in Mobile from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.)

Family Health, the primary care side of MCHD, has been a longtime participant in the Alabama Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (ABCCEDP). This program provides free breast and cervical cancer screenings for women who meet eligibility guidelines. Free services include a pelvic exam, pap smear, clinical breast exam, mammogram, and diagnostic services such as an ultrasound, colposcopy, or biopsy if needed. To learn more, visit https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/bandc.