October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and its symbol, the pink ribbon, will be ubiquitous. Despite growing awareness and new developments in prevention and detection, one in eight women - approximately 12 percent of the population - will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. And it remains the second leading cause of cancer death in women.
Take a moment to take a look beyond the statistics and the personal stories are revealed. Stories of women who we know. Women who are daughters, wives, mothers, professionals, and friends; each with a story filled with heartbreak and determination, grief and strength, fear and redemption. Stories that we don't hear often enough.
Melanie A. Lynch, M.D., a breast surgeon at Summa Akron City Hospital, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015. In this forum, ideastream® Managing Producer Kay Colby talks with Dr. Lynch about her dual experience of being the doctor treating women with breast cancer and becoming the patient who was cared for by her very own team. It’s a unique opportunity to combine science and story to deepen our awareness of this important medical challenge.