Two Abilene survivors share their breast cancer stories, including one man
An oil executive and a mom of three say they're speaking up so others get checked and don't feel alone.
CommunityTwo Abilene residents shared their breast cancer experiences during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, each hoping to help someone else.
Buddy Napier, president of HGN Operating, said he didn't know men could get breast cancer until a business partner told him. A couple of weeks later he found a lump. His surgeon called during a hunting trip to tell him it was stage two. He chose an aggressive treatment plan and went through six months of chemotherapy while still running his company. He is urging men to watch for changes in their bodies and get checked.
Kelly Mann, a mother of three who posts about interior design and family life, was diagnosed at 35. She had trouble finding resources and other young moms in the same situation, so she documented everything online, from diagnosis through treatment and cold capping. That connected her with patients around the world.
Mann is expected to be considered cancer-free in December, though she says she's cautious about the phrase. She says it's possible to be grateful to be alive and still feel awful.
Men and women who notice a lump or other change should talk to a doctor.
