CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) -- The Medical University of South Carolina hosted its fourth annual Breast Cancer Survivors Wellness Expo a day dedicated to celebrating strength, sharing resources, and spreading a message of hope.
Held at MUSC's Wellness Center, the event brought together survivors, support groups, healthcare professionals, and vendors for a day filled with education and empowerment.
Launched in 2022, the Survivors Wellness Expo was created to help women battling breast cancer connect with experts, discover new resources, and celebrate their journeys toward healing.
"There's not many events like this there's really no specific events like this," said Colby Denton, MUSC's Marketing Director. "We've got over 20 vendors this year, which is fantastic for the community. This event was created with survivors in mind, as well as their family members, just to show them what resources are available."
Attendees enjoyed a variety of activities from free wellness services and health screenings to pink swag giveaways, lunch, and interactive photo stations.
Guest speakers shared their personal stories of survival and discussed topics like healthy living, recovery, and cosmetic care after surgery.
Vendors also offered practical resources, including information about Medicare benefits that may cover three free bras every three months a small but impactful way to help women feel more comfortable and confident during recovery.
"We've met survivors who've gone years without realizing what's available to them," said Sherry Norris, spokesperson for the Alala Cancer Society. "Events like this give them hope, comfort, and the tools to feel confident again."
According to the National Institutes of Health, more women under 50 are being diagnosed with breast cancer a trend doctors link to fewer screenings and lower self-exam rates.
Survivor Bernette Chifoll said she hopes to take what she's learned and share it with others in her community.
"Right now, cancer is affecting the younger generation. It's not the older generations getting diagnosed it's the younger generation, infants, children so it's important to be aware of what's going on," said Chifoll.
The event's message was clear no one fights breast cancer alone.
To learn how you can support breast cancer patients, visit MUSC Hollings Cancer Center.