October is the month set aside to bring attention to breast cancer and celebrate the success and progress of those that have been diagnosed with breast cancer and their families.

There is nothing in our mind that is more devastating than to go to the doctor and to be told that you have cancer. The second worst thing is to tell your family that you have this diagnosis.

The bad news is that in 2009, 40,170 woman and 440 men died of breast cancer in this country. The good news is that 2.5 million breast cancer victims are alive and in remission or are on their way to being rid of cancer.

One of the reasons that the remission rate is so high is because of people like our readers who support the many cancer related organizations and fundraisers that happen in our community.

We are making strides but we need to keep all cancers and their cures in the forefront of our minds and hearts. If we do, then hopefully some day you or your loved one will never have to hear from your doctor that he has found cancer in your body.

To that end we are going to run our banner in pink. If you have a success story, like Lee Turner (Page 3), send it to us either news@rockdalenews.com or by going to www.rockdalenews.com, clicking on "Successful Survivors" to upload it yourself.

We can beat this disease; it will take your prayers and special thoughts and your volunteer time to make it happen.