a survivor’s story of hope

ROANOKE, Va. (WDBJ) – October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to spotlight the most common cancer among women.

Early detection is critical in the fight against this disease, yet health data reveals significant disparities in outcomes for Black women.

Most doctors recommend yearly mammograms for women over 40, but Almetrice Payne’s journey with breast cancer began at just 30. “I cried, I screamed, I questioned everything—my faith, my life. I kept asking, ‘Why me?’” Payne recalled.

Payne fought breast cancer for nearly a year in 2014. Now, she is sharing her story hoping to inspire other women to prioritize their health.

When asked what prompted her to get a mammogram, Payne explained, “My breasts were itching really badly, and they became red and tender.”

Recognizing these symptoms allowed doctors to detect her cancer early, significantly improving her chances of survival.

Despite advancements in detection and treatment, breast cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths among Black women. According to the American Cancer Society, Black women are 41% more likely to die from breast cancer than White women.

Dr. Seyi White, a breast cancer specialist at Carilion Clinic, cites several factors contributing to this disparity, including genetics, limited access to healthcare, and inconsistencies in screening practices.

”The most important thing as far as breast cancer is early detection and being able to detect or find out that there’s a cancer before we’re able to feel that cancer,” explained White. “So, mammograms, mammograms, mammograms…that is our gold standard.”

But many insurance companies do not cover mammograms until women reach the recommended age.

Dr. White advises women to stay vigilant for any changes in their breasts.

“If there is something new, something that stands out, something that your finger kind of stops on when you’re doing an exam or taking a look,” added White.

Though getting a mammogram can be daunting, Payne insists it can save lives.

“To be here and to know that that I made it, it just spreads awareness to other women to never be afraid,” said Payne.

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