Breast cancer campaign kicks off

CHESAPEAKE, Va. (WAVY) - The Hampton Roads chapter of the American Cancer Society kicked off a new campaign against breast cancer Thursday morning in Chesapeake.

The campaign, Making Strides, is a walk to raise awareness and money for breast cancer research.

"I actually celebrated ending my chemotherapy with the first year of the Making Strides walk," said Danita Jones,a breast cancer survivor.

When Jones' brother asked if she cried, Jones said, "I did not cry and I won't cry from this because I know I'm going to be okay."

Doctors said breast cancer patients diagnosed early have a 98 percent survival rate, because of the Making Strides program.

"I've had several women on my staff who've been diagnosed with breast cancer and never missed a day of work. It's just absolutely amazing," said Dr. Patricia Hoge of the American Cancer Society. However, she also said that there is no way to prevent breast cancer.

Dr. Hoge said every woman is at risk, but women can increase their chances for survival with a few simple steps. These include: maintaining a healthy weight, getting annual mammograms after age 40, and seeing a doctor every year.

The Making Strides Walk will be held Saturday October 9th at Harbor Park in Norfolk. Click on Making Strides to form for a team, walk with us or make a donation.

You can also find pictures from Thursday's event and last year's walk on WAVY health reporter Stephanie Harris' blog and facebook page.