In Virginia, there are almost 7,600 new cases of breast cancer each year and more than 1,150 deaths due to this disease.

ROANOKE, Va. – October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation (VBCF) wants to get the word out in southwest Virginia that resources are available. All month VBCF is hosting a virtual education series, answering questions from those with cancer. The executive director said often patients zone out when they receive a diagnosis. “When you hear the word ‘cancer,’ your mind doesn’t always then focus on all the details beyond that,” said Katy Sawyer, Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation executive director. “You sort of go to, ‘Oh my goodness, my loved ones, my family, my friends.’”Thursday’s education topic is eating for better health.