Pastor Kurt Thomas, Senior Pastor
Apple Creek Health Ministries Promotes Awareness, Education, and Prevention
Sabbath, October 17, 2026
“Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health…” — 3 John 1:2 (KJV)
Your health matters. Your life matters. And early detection can make a life-saving difference!
On Sabbath, October 17, 2026, as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Health Ministries Department of Apple Creek Seventh-Day Adventist Church, under the leadership of Sister Beverly Brown and her dedicated team, presented an important health awareness feature delivered by Sister Kaydian Williams, a Registered Nurse in Ontario.
Under the timely message “Know Your Breasts. Know Your Risk. Act Early,” Sister Williams reminded our congregation that breast cancer affects both women and men, and that awareness, early detection, and timely medical attention can significantly improve outcomes.
The Statistics Remind Us Why Awareness Matters
According to the Canadian Cancer Society’s 2026 estimates, approximately 32,400 women and 300 men in Canada are expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer this year.
That represents approximately 89 women receiving a breast cancer diagnosis every day.
While these figures are sobering, there is encouraging news: many breast cancers, particularly those detected at an early stage, can be treated successfully.
Know the Warning Signs
One of the most valuable reminders from the presentation was the importance of recognizing changes in our bodies.
Warning signs may include a new breast or underarm lump, changes in breast size or shape, skin dimpling, unusual nipple discharge, or persistent breast discomfort.
Importantly, breast cancer does not always cause pain, and not every breast lump is cancerous. However, any unusual change should be promptly evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Sister Williams also reminded us that men have breast tissue and should never ignore suspicious changes.
Screening: A Step Worth Taking
In Ontario, eligible individuals between 40 and 74 years of age can access breast cancer screening mammograms without a doctor’s referral.
Individuals aged 40–49 are encouraged to discuss the benefits and potential harms of screening with a healthcare professional, while routine screening every two years is generally recommended for those aged 50–74. Those at increased risk may require additional screening.
Alongside screening, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol, and avoiding smoking can help support overall health.
The message is clear: Know your body, understand your risk, and never delay seeking medical advice when something seems unusual.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Health Ministries Team
On behalf of our pastoral team and congregation, I wish to express my sincere appreciation to Sister Beverly Brown, Head of Health Ministries, and her dedicated team for their leadership, thoughtful planning, and commitment to promoting health awareness within our church family.
Special thanks to Sister Kaydian Williams, Registered Nurse, for her informative and timely presentation. Her professional knowledge, practical guidance, and emphasis on early detection provided valuable information that can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our members and their families.
Sister Beverly and your team, thank you for reminding us that Health Ministries is not merely about presenting information, but about empowering individuals to make informed decisions, embrace healthier lifestyles, and care for the precious gift of life entrusted to us by God.
Your faithful service and dedication to the well-being of our congregation are sincerely appreciated.
Let Awareness Lead to Action!
As we reflect on this important presentation, I encourage every member to take the message personally.
Schedule appropriate health screenings, pay attention to unusual changes, encourage loved ones to seek medical advice, and offer compassionate support to those affected by breast cancer.
Breast Cancer Awareness is more than wearing pink. It is about being informed, taking responsible action, and helping to protect precious lives.
Know your breasts. Know your risk. Get screened. Act early!
May God continue to bless Sister Beverly Brown and the entire Health Ministries team as they work to nurture healthier individuals, stronger families, and a healthier church community.