During a recent government meeting, the Board of Supervisors of Bedford County, Virginia, unanimously approved the minutes from their previous meeting held on August 12, 2024. The motion to approve was made by Mister Sharp and seconded by Mister Johnson, with all members voting in favor.

The meeting also featured a significant proclamation recognizing September 2024 as Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Miss Vansly, who spoke passionately about the cause, highlighted the personal impact of ovarian cancer, mentioning her late friend Michelle, who succumbed to the disease nearly four years ago.

In her proclamation, Miss Vansly emphasized the alarming statistics surrounding ovarian cancer, noting that it is the fifth leading cause of cancer deaths among women in the U.S. She pointed out that 90% of women diagnosed do not have a family history that increases their risk, and the absence of reliable early detection methods contributes to 75% of cases being diagnosed at an advanced stage.

The proclamation underscored the importance of early detection, stating that if diagnosed early, the five-year survival rate can be as high as 90%. It also called for ongoing investment in research, education, and awareness initiatives to improve outcomes for women affected by ovarian cancer. The board expressed their commitment to supporting community events throughout September aimed at raising awareness about the disease and its symptoms.