Snellville, Ga. (October 29, 2025) – On October 23, Piedmont Eastside Medical Center welcomed 175 community members and staff at its second annual Rock the Ribbon event to raise awareness about breast cancer.
“Breast cancer doesn’t wait and neither should we,” said Michael Aho, M.D., Piedmont Eastside’s diagnostic radiologist, who spoke at the event. “The good news is that when breast cancer is caught before it spreads, the five-year survival rate is around 99%. That’s why early detection is not only important, it’s lifesaving.”
Dr. Aho shared that advances in imaging such as digital mammography, 3D tomosynthesis and breast MRI allow us to detect breast cancer earlier than ever and with greater accuracy. Early detection also gives patients more treatment options.
Silvia Garcia, a breast cancer survivor and patient advocate from the East Georgia Cancer Coalition, gave the keynote presentation and led a workshop on supporting caregivers. Garcia was only 31 years old when she was diagnosed in 2020. Her treatment included 16 rounds of chemotherapy and surgery.
“Throughout my journey, I was determined, but cancer broke me—physically, mentally, and emotionally,” said Garcia. “But I’ve learned that being broken wasn’t a bad thing, it’s allowed me to transform into the person I am today, which is beautiful.” Garcia recently celebrated five years being cancer-free and said that each time she tells her story, she heals a little more.
Several organizations and vendors, including the American Cancer Society, East Georgia Cancer Coalition and The Wig Dr., had tables with information and giveaways. Attendees were also able to tour Piedmont Eastside’s Breast and Diagnostic Center and enjoy refreshments.
Mayor Barbara Bender of Snellville, who provided opening remarks, discussed the importance of events like Rock the Ribbon. “They help remind people that there’s hope through prevention and treatment, and highlight the importance of self-monitoring, screening, and early diagnosis. From my own experience getting mammograms at Piedmont Eastside, everyone—from the doctors, nurses, and radiology technicians to the registration staff—is so welcoming and kind.”
Piedmont Oncology recommends women start annual mammograms at age 40. People at high risk based on family history or other factors should begin at age 30. Annual mammograms can be conveniently scheduled online at PiedmontMammo.org.