DEMOPOLIS – The Demopolis Curves fitness center celebrated Breast Cancer Awareness Month with area survivors, local members and a candlelight service.

Monday night, survivors were invited to the center to tell the story of their breast cancer experience and be honored by family and friends.

“It was a lot of fun,” Demopolis resident Laura Foster said. “There were about six or seven ladies who are survivors, but I had the longest longevity of them all.”

It has been 32 years since Foster became cancer free in April of 1973, making her the survivor with the most cancer-free years under her belt.

There was also a candlelight memorial in order to honor those who didn’t survive the deadly disease.

Foster said the reception showed women who haven’t faced breast cancer that the disease is unpredictable.

“I think the ones who haven’t experienced it will be more apt to get their annual checkups and mammograms,” she said. “It can hit at any age, although some insurances don’t cover mammograms for people under 40.”

Foster said breast cancer doesn’t discriminate and there is no way to predict who the disease will reach.

She is also thankful for Curves and their efforts to spread awareness.

“I think Curves’ efforts are to be commended for being involved and being focused on issues,” she said. “They are not only there keeping you aware of the physical, but the health aspect as well. They are always keeping you aware of what you need to do to get and stay healthy.”