**OCOAH recognizes breast cancer awareness this month with stories from local families who have walked through it. We praise God for how He heals, restores and comforts.

Breast Caner Awareness Month: Katrina Williams

Greetings! My name is Katrina Williams, I am from Gadsden, AL. I am the second oldest of four girls. I attended Gadsden State Community College where I received a degree as a Radiologic Technologist. Upon completion of my degree I relocated to Huntsville, AL. and worked as a registered mammographer. While working as a mammographer God began to open a new door of opportunity that led me into the field of event planning. In 2012 I was privileged to plan an event called Pink Ribbon Ladies Luncheon. This event was geared to support and educate women about Breast Cancer. I also participate in events such as the Liz Hurley Pink Ribbon Run and Paint The City Pink. I now reside in Birmingham, AL where I am currently working as a mammographer while sharing a wonderful life with my husband Michael, our two beautiful daughters, Kiona and Kinlie and our dog Jax.

HOPE

Helping Other People Endure

The first time I heard the words breast cancer I must have been about age 14. I’ll never forget the day my family was told that our cousin Bonnie had been diagnosed with breast cancer. I was old enough to know that the “C” word was not a good thing but too young to understand what that meant for our cousin. The only question I knew to ask at that time was, how long would she have to live?

After countless hours and weeks of treatment Bonnie’s cancer went into remission. Unfortunately, 5 years later the cancer had come back, not only was it in the breast again, it had metastasized to to her liver. The cycle of treatment started again. Bonnie was determined no matter what she was not going to defeated. 1 year later her battle with cancer was over. This was an extremely difficult time for my family we found comfort knowing that Bonnie fought a good fight. Her faith in God and the love she poured into others while here made a huge impact. Her love and legacy will forever live.

Several years later breast cancer hit close again when a dear friend was diagnosed at age 30. Watching her go through her battle and not give up inspired me. Although she is no longer here, her courageous spirit and unwavering faith in God left an imprint on the lives of others. Every year in October her life is celebrated by participating in the Liz Hurley Pink Ribbon Run and other charitable events.

   

13 years later God continues to bless my career. I’ve had the pleasure to meet so many courageous women that are battling breast cancer, whether I meet them as a patient or at an awareness event. Being a mammograher has allowed me to educate others outside of my work environment. Since breast cancer has been on the rise in our communities it is paramount that all women 40 years of age and over get a mammogram annually. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death among women and 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed over their lifetime.

The month of October is nationally known as breast cancer awareness month. This is the time when the world “goes pink” but we must continue support the cause and raise awareness at all times.

Scripture

Isaiah 41:10

So do no not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed , for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my right hand.

Prayer of Healing

Father, I come before the throne of grace with praise and thanksgiving. Father right now we receive your right hand of healing. Father its by your power that the blind can see, the mute can talk and the sick person can be made well. Father lead them beside the quite waters, give them peace that surpasses all understanding . When they become discouraged or fearful remind them Father that you are their God and your word tells us not to fear, nor be dismayed. You will strengthen us and uphold us with your righteous hand. So I declare by the sound of my voice healing is happening in Jesus name. Amen.

Tags: breast cancer awareness, katrina williams, Liz Hurley Pink Ribbon Run, mammographer, Our City On A Hill