Abilene, Texas, is launching a significant new initiative designed to provide free breast exams, aimed at eliminating both financial and social obstacles that hinder women’s access to essential preventive healthcare services.

According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, a staggering 45% of women postpone preventive care due to concerns about costs.

Partnership for Health

This initiative has come to life through the collaboration of Deydra Williams, the founder of Pink Cap Warriors on the Move, and the Laura Bush Institute for Women’s Health. Williams expressed a strong commitment to combating the stigma surrounding breast health services, noting,

“The stigma of not having the money to go, not having the insurance to go… We wanted to take that away and let them know that there is a place for them to go.”

Community Impact

Williams, who experienced the personal loss of her mother to breast cancer, highlighted the critical need for awareness, particularly among African American women, stating,

“As African American women, we are dying from the disease more than any other racial group… we need to speak up for ourselves to get the medical help that we need.”

Event Details

The free breast exams will take place on Saturday at Elwood West Methodist Church, organized jointly with local church leaders and community advocates. James Potter, a local church representative, remarked,

“This event was perfect for us. We want to help the community, and they want to help a church. It was a match made in heaven.”

Encouraging Health Awareness

Jessica Andrade, an organizer of the event, encourages all community members to prioritize their health, emphasizing,

“2025 is the year to take back your health… taking a few minutes out of your day can save you so much heartache later on.”

The breast exams offered will be pain-free and devoid of radiation. Andrade reassured potential participants that the experience will be friendly and non-threatening, providing immediate feedback on their health, saying,

“It’s not going to give you any life-threatening decisions… They’re going to tell you, hey, there’s nothing to worry about or there’s something of concern.”

Community Invitation

Williams warmly invites the broader community to take part in this vital event and to make the most of the free exam opportunity available to them.