Jaclyn Smith Q&A
Jaclyn Smith, a breast cancer survivor, is lending support for BCRF this year. In honor of her silver anniversary with Kmart, Kmart has teamed up with Jaclyn to introduce a special collection to stores nationwide this fall--a tribute to a signature grace and elegance, married with affordability, that have never gone out of style.
What does it mean to be a celebrity breast cancer survivor?
Being a breast cancer survivor is like having a badge of courage. You are stronger for having gone through it and you have a newfound appreciation for life. By being a survivor and a celebrity, it has allowed me the opportunity to help raise awareness for the cause and to educate people about the importance of early detection. I am so thrilled to partner with BCRF to bring attention to the cause and more importantly to help raise funds.
The Breast Cancer Research Foundation believes that research today will save lives tomorrow, why is it important to you to support the Foundation in this mission?
Breast cancer has affected more that 2.5 million women in the U.S. alone. Ask almost anyone and chances are they have been affected by breast cancer or know someone close to them who have. I believe in supporting the Breast Cancer Research Foundation because I know we will find a cure. Since its inception, BCRF has made huge strides in the fight against breast cancer and BCRF-funded research has helped save lives and improve the quality of care for patients. We've come a long way and we are not there yet, but we do know that what we are doing is working.
What do you wish women knew about breast cancer?
Just being female and getting older puts you at risk. Women need to be aware that they can make easy changes in their diet or exercise that can help with breast cancer prevention. Early detection is also a key component to successfully treating breast cancer. Women need to be vigilant in their self exams and mammograms, and listen to their body. If something concerns you - then make an appointment and go see your doctor.
As a mother, why is it important to continue to raise awareness of breast cancer?
The importance of raising breast cancer awareness goes beyond our responsibilities as mothers. It's our responsibility as daughters, sisters, aunts, friends, neighbors. Encourage the women in your life to do self-exams and get a mammogram every year.
