Brake for Breakfast Drives Home Breast Health Awareness in Missoula

On a crisp October morning, Missoula residents lined up at the Community Medical Center for the first-ever Brake for Breakfast event, a drive-through initiative aimed at promoting breast health awareness.

Participants received complimentary sack breakfasts, pink-themed gifts, and vital educational materials on breast cancer prevention and screening.

“Breast cancer awareness is crucial for early detection, treatment, and improving outcomes for those affected by this disease,” emphasized Dr. Angela Pallesi, a breast surgical oncologist at Community Medical Center.

She noted that many women delay or skip recommended mammograms due to fear, time constraints, or lack of information.

“This event gives us a chance to connect with women in our community, provide education, and encourage life-saving screenings.”

Among the attendees was Jessica Spehar, a breast cancer survivor who recently completed her treatment.

“I had breast cancer. My mom passed away from breast cancer. It was a wild experience, but I'm thankful to be here,” she shared.

Spehar's presence underscored the event's significance in fostering community support and awareness.

The Montana Department of Health and Human Services reports that breast cancer accounts for 33% of all new cancer diagnoses among women in the state, with approximately 960 new cases annually.

Dr. Pallesi stressed the importance of regular screenings, stating, “It's important to get screened so that we can identify it early if you do have it.”

She urged individuals not to procrastinate, highlighting that early detection makes treatment more manageable and establishes a health baseline.

Spehar echoed this sentiment, advising, “I highly recommend getting your mammograms early. Advocate and push for yourself to get them earlier, do your self-breast exams, and just stay on top of it.”

The success of Brake for Breakfast reflects Community Medical Center's commitment to proactive health initiatives.

By combining convenience with education, the event effectively raised awareness and encouraged preventive measures against breast cancer.

As the community continues to rally around such initiatives, the hope is that more individuals will prioritize their health and participate in regular screenings.

For more information on breast cancer prevention and screening, individuals are encouraged to consult healthcare providers or visit local health resources.