LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — It was a day of reflection and endurance as dozens of cancer survivors and their families gathered in celebration.
The Lima Memorial Women’s Health Center hosted its 29th annual Hope Garden Celebration, honoring breast cancer survivors and their journeys of strength and perseverance.
For many, the event served as a reminder that while the road to recovery can be challenging, no one has to walk it alone. Survivors shared their experiences and encouraged others facing a cancer diagnosis to seek help and support.
“I think a lot of people don't know that there are programs, there are people, there are groups that are there to support them, and all they have to do is ask,” said Josie Schmidt, a 14-day post–breast cancer survivor. “So use your social worker, use your case manager, use your navigator, ask your doctor, ask your nurses, ask those questions. No question is dumb. No question is stupid. Ask as many as you want.”
The Lima Memorial Women’s Health Center hosted its 29th annual Hope Garden Celebration.
Dr. Darlene Weyer, medical director of the Lima Memorial Women’s Health Center, emphasized the importance of awareness and screening. “Most of us know someone who's been touched by breast cancer, and the message I like to get out to the community is just the importance of women over the age of 40 having an annual mammogram and those people who are affected with breast cancer to know that you're not alone,” she said.
October is observed as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Friday marks National Mammography Day, encouraging women to schedule their annual screenings.
