OGH Hosts Annual Pink Event
BOBBY ARDOIN
St. Landry Now.com Editor
(Photos By Freddie Herpin)
The breast cancer journey both during and after treatment can be challenging, but there are mechanisms available to navigate through the obstacles, break cancer survivor Edi Comeaux told a large audience Friday.
Breaux, whose breast cancer experience began about five years ago, described on Friday the multiple emotions encountered by both patients and survivors at the annual Opelousas General Health Care Systems Pink The Town Pink awareness luncheon.
The annual event at the Evangeline Downs Event Center was highlighted by a Hawaiian theme, also featured several breast cancer survivors who paraded through the crowd and attracted applause for their recoveries.
Women who also have been in remission from one to 20 years, were recognized by the approximately 400 who attended.
A Survivor’s Story
The cancer story involving Comeaux includes several layers that span nearly a quarter century..
Beginning in 2000 when her father and later her husband were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and following their deaths, Comeaux began receiving her breast cancer treatments that included radiation and chemotherapy.
Handling the various emotional aspects that often include euphoria and depression can be difficult, said Comeaux.
“Fear is something that you have to live with. It’s how you handle it. You will always need a reset and figure out how to recharge,” said Comeaux, who lives in Carencro.
It’s also important, Comeaux said, that those who experience cancer discover avenues for self-healing.
There are many ways to schedule recharges, Comeaux pointed out.
“You need to schedule your own recharge, but you also need to make time for yourself and find your own fine,” Comeaux noted.
Honoring The Survivors
Introduced during the event were cancer survivors Julie Badeaux, Megan Begnaud, Tia Berry, Melisha “Mel” Bowman, Wendy Marchand, Norma Quibodeaux and Phyllis Tubre.
Others recognized by acclimation included survivors of one to 20 years of being cancer free.
