Breast Cancer Hero Honored Today

Andrea Ivory knew she was fortunate when she survived breast cancer due to early detection. That made her think of all the women without health insurance who put off getting mammograms and breast exams.

She didn’t just think about it. Andrea started the Florida Breast Health Initiative. Since 2006, Andrea and her team of volunteers have knocked on the doors of around 20,000 homes. And they’ve helped provide more than 500 mammograms to Miami area residents.

Andrea and the Florida Breast Health Initiative volunteers spread the word that “Early detection is the best protection.” They devote the first three Saturdays of each month during the fall and spring to outreach and education. That’s when they sign up women for free mammograms. Then, on the last Saturday of the month, a mobile mammography van from a partner hospital takes to the mammograms literally to the doorsteps of the women who need them. With each mammogram, the volunteers at the Florida Breast Health Initiative are potentially saving a life.

Today, Andrea is being honored by CNN Heroes during a celebratory rally in Miami. She will receive $25,000, but can receive up to $100,000 if she’s voted the CNN Hero of the Year. You can vote for her at CNN until Thursday, November 19. The CNN Hero of the Year will be announced during a star-studded gala in Hollywood. The “CNN Heroes: All All-Star Tribute” will air on Thanksgiving night.

Read more about Andrea’s story at CNN: Army of volunteers saves lives with clipboards, high spirits.

(Images provided by CNN)