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Cancer Survivors, James Shaw Honored At Healthy Family Day

Posted at 6:55 PM, May 19, 2018
and last updated 2018-05-19 20:23:06-04

Cancer survivors were recognized at a community health event in the Edgehill community.

During Healthy Family Day at Rose Park Middle School on Saturday, 25 breast cancer survivors walked in a parade and were honored for their fight.

Delta Sigma Theta sorority and The Minerva Foundation of Tennessee co-sponsored the family-friendly, free event. 

Waffle House shooting hero, James Shaw Jr., was the Grand Marshal of the parade.

Shaw was also recognized for his strength to survive the shooting in Antioch on April 22.

Organizers said cancer survivors can relate to Shaw's heroic actions because they too are determined to be survivors.

"Breast cancer has affected so many African American women, and we just want them to know that they have a place to go and a place to go for assistance," co-chair of the Physical and Mental Health Committee, Revida Rahman, said.

Attendees were also able to get free blood pressure, dental, kidney, and glucose level screenings. 

Organizers said this type of event allows people to take control of their health.

"Many people don't know where to go when they need help. So this is an opportunity to let us see who's in the community, who's available, what kinds of services are available and what kinds of services you need because everybody needs access to better health care," president of the Nashville Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, Gloria Johnson, said. 

Delta Sigma Theta received a grant from the Tennessee Department of Health to focus on breast cancer and how exercising more can reduce diseases like breast cancer.