KNX Hero: Cancer survivor and passionate advocate

Every year, people worldwide use the month of October to highlight the courageous fight against cancer that millions endure.

Organizations hold 5K fundraisers, people wear pink, and survivors educate the public about risk factors and the importance of early detection.

This year, we recognize mom, friend, and survivor Melanie Lewis of Orange County, who is encouraging women and men to get screened, even if cancer doesn't run in the family.

Lewis tells Heroes Host Heather Jordan , "Only 15 percent of breast cancer is hereditary. One in eight women in the United States will have breast cancer at this time unless things change, and in Orange County, it's one in seven."

After winning her battle, Lewis joined the team at the Pink Journey Foundation where she helps lead a program that provides free mammograms to people who are underinsured or uninsured.

"In the last 18 months, we have screened over 500 women. We really want to reach out to women who don't have the same services that a lot of us do," Lewis said.

She also wants to remind people how important it is to stay positive when facing a diagnosis. "You know, cancer doesn't like positivity," Lewis said. "It gets really mad when you're filled with positivity. So even if you feel like you can't get it from within, surround yourself with those that can give it to you and lean on them and use their support to help you through really hard times."

You can join Lewis and the Pink Journey Foundation team for a walk this Saturday, or if you are busy this weekend, there are happy hour and cycling events later this month.

To learn more about these and all their events, click HERE and listen to the special extended interview with Lewis above.

Check out all our KNX Heroes here .

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