Janet Bacon, a breast cancer survivor and a She Matters resident health advocate, will be honored along with other breast cancer survivors at the Buffalo Bills game on Oct. 20 at Highmark Stadium in Buffalo, N.Y.

Bacon’s attendance comes as the NFL and the American Cancer Society partner to celebrate October as Breast Cancer Awareness.

Bacon had aways had an annual mammogram, but missed getting one in 2014. When she went for her scan in February 2015, doctors found a cancerous lump. Three months later after undergoing radiation therapy, Bacon was declared cancer free.

“I’m evidence that you must be vigilant in getting your mammogram,” Bacon said. “I’m sure it saved my life.”

Bacon now makes sure others hear her message. As a resident health advocate for She Matters, a peer-to-peer community outreach program established by Upstate Cancer Center to reduce breast cancer disparities in underserved women, Bacon gladly discusses with others the need to get their annual screenings for breast cancer. 

“Many times, all it takes is friendly conversation with a neighbor to provide the encouragement and guidance,” she said. “When they hear it from me—someone who’s been there and done that—they get the message.”

Bacon said she is thrilled to be honored with the other cancer survivors. “Wherever cancer survivors are gathered, one is sure to hear inspiring stories.”

Caption: Janet Bacon, right, a She Matters resident health advocate, will be celebrated with other breast cancer survivors at the Buffalo Bills home game Oct. 20.