CLEVELAND — "Do it for Danielle."
That was our 3News rallying cry last spring after anchor and reporter Danielle Wiggins announced that she had breast cancer and would have to undergo surgery.
We launched a public awareness campaign to encourage viewers to not delay getting their mammograms, to highlight the life-saving value of breast self-exams, and to share vital information about breast cancer, the most common cancer affecting U.S. women besides skin cancer.
We believe Danielle's openness about her diagnosis helped open up an important conversation, letting those affected by cancer know they're not alone. Now that Breast Cancer Awareness Month has arrived, we're renewing our focus on the disease with a brand new set of "Do it for Danielle" stories airing every Thursday in October, and we even have a special pink ribbon to offer our 3News viewers that will raise funds for a great cause.
Danielle returned to work in May, and we're thrilled to say all the news related to her recovery is positive. On Sept. 22, she celebrated reaching the six-month mark since doctors removed all the detectable cancer from her body.
For Danielle, her cancer was caught early, and for that she thanks her longtime mentor — journalist Regina Brett — who is herself a breast cancer survivor.
"Regina Brett introduced me to breast self-exams, which led to me catching my own breast cancer in an early stage," Danielle says. "She then introduced me to the process of preparing for treatment and the healing journey after a cancer fight, which led us to The Gathering Place. I was impressed with their free programs and services and wanted to find a way to assist the organization in reaching more people of color."
The stories we'll feature on Thursday mornings in October will keep you informed about organizations that are making a big difference, creating a sense of community for breast cancer patients and providing much-needed support for them.
"As I was healing from surgery, many people reached out to me through social media and email to offer prayers, encouragement, and words of support. Many of them were cancer survivors or those still battling the disease," Danielle shared. "Two women who reached out to me during this time started nonprofit organizations to help women battling cancer after their own journey with breast cancer. I was touched by how they turned their hardships into a blessing for others. I'm excited this initiative will give us the chance to connect these organizations with the people who need them."
Also, 3News is collaborating with The Gathering Place to offer a "Do it for Danielle" pink ribbon. Anyone making a donation of $10 or more to The Gathering Place during October will receive a free ribbon. Learn more or make a donation by clicking here.