Dawn Hughes was 40 years old when a routine mammogram changed her life. She had no noticeable lump or symptoms, but her first mammogram revealed calcifications that led to a Stage I breast cancer diagnosis. Today, she describes herself as 10 years cancer-free, and she continues to share her experience in hopes that another woman will make the appointment, ask the question or speak up when something feels wrong.
Dawn knows firsthand that you cannot always tell what someone is going through simply by looking at them. Cancer treatment can take a significant physical and emotional toll, even when someone appears healthy, and well-intentioned comments can sometimes overlook the challenges they are facing. Through her experience, Dawn hopes to encourage more women to pay attention to their bodies, advocate for their health and understand that breast cancer does not always present itself through a noticeable lump or a family history.
Her experience has also shaped how she supports others navigating a diagnosis. Dawn has learned to give herself grace, appreciate meaningful relationships and recognize that cancer does not define the years that follow. She encourages those newly diagnosed to find people they can lean on and allow themselves difficult days without feeling they must be positive every moment.
That commitment to supporting others has kept Dawn connected to Pink Ribbon Connection, an Indiana organization providing free resources, education and emotional support to people affected by breast cancer. Over the years, she has volunteered with the organization, participated in its fashion shows and was featured as a model in its 2019 calendar. On October 10, Dawn returned to the runway as a survivor model for the organization's 2026 Stars of Pink Fashion Show, celebrating her journey alongside others who understand the challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis.
Through her continued involvement and willingness to speak openly about her experience, Dawn hopes other women feel encouraged to prioritize their health and find support when they need it. As she puts it, "My journey is my testimony, and as long as I have a voice, I will use it to raise awareness."
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawn-hughes-8047065/?isSelfProfile=false