Milwaukee VA Medical Center hosts 1st-ever walk for breast cancer awareness

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Hundreds paired their gym shoes with something pink on Friday, showing support at the Milwaukee VA Medical Center's first-ever walk for breast health and cancer awareness.

"One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer," said Amanda Ziegler, the mammogram care coordinator at the Milwaukee VA.

The 2-K walk beside Lake Wheeler brought together VA employees and those affected by breast cancer.

"My sister passed away in '20 from breast cancer, it's still hard," said participant Kristie Dilkey.

Dilkey and her husband, Richard, find comfort in awareness events.

"You meet up with people who have been through the same thing, so you feel like you have a support group," Dilkey said.

Their daughter works in the VA's women's health program, helping veterans with breast cancer.

"We have to get the message out, you have to get the mammograms, you have to stay on top of it," Dilkey said.

While awareness is the key, access to resources is crucial.

The VA says women veterans are often underserved.

"We're trying to expand the word on women's health and bring more women veterans here to help get their care," Ziegler said.

Just recently, the Milwaukee VA has been able to expand their care.

"Due to the SERVICE Act, we're now able to provide mammography care to clinically appropriate veterans," said nurse executive Tandria Williams.

Williams is a breast cancer survivor herself and knows the necessity of accessible services.

"It'll allow more veterans to come here and seek care, and really get the support they need," Williams said.

Click here for more information on the Milwaukee VA women's program.