Rheams Diamond Shop started doing permanent bracelets at the end of June, but during the month of October they began doing a special edition for Breast Cancer Awareness.
The month of October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a case the owners of Rheams Diamond Shop hold close to home. Owner, Kelli Beck has faced her diagnosis.
“I was diagnosed in 2018, but my mom fought breast cancer for 17 years.” Beck said. “I keep a picture of my mom up in the store at all times. She fought for many years and was supposed to be good and then she passed away in 2020 right before Covid got bad.”
A lot of the awareness Beck does, she credits to honoring her mother. Her mother is whom she claims saved her life by hounding her about staying vigilant in her awareness.
“She always, always was telling me to get checks,” Beck said. “When the day came that I found something, she took me to the doctor. The first doctor said it wasn’t anything to worry about and my mom didn’t like that answer so to the next doctor we went.”
After visiting a second doctor, Beck was advised that waiting a year, like she was told to, would’ve put her into a very bad spot. Catching it in time, Beck credits her mother.
“I found mine very early, due to genetics.” Beck said. “Breast cancer has affected most of the women on my moms side of the family so it was something to worry about.”
With her diagnosis, Beck went ahead with a double mastectomy and treatment. After her bodies rejection of expanders, Beck underwent nine surgeries in a two week period.
Ever since her diagnosis, Beck has vowed to do something during the month of October to raise awareness every year.
“I will do something every year,” Beck said. “This year are these bracelets, but next year may be something different. But we will always do something, I will always do something.”
For October, customers can get a special stainless steel bracelet with a ribbon pendant. The cost of each bracelet, $35, goes to the organization “24 Hours in The Canyon”.
All money raised will be given to 24 Hours, which gives money to women in the Panhandle for costs that arise when undergoing treatment.
“Her [Beck’s Mother] mission, is now my mission.” Beck said. “People don’t need to die. We are our own best advocates, and when you feel inside that something isn’t right, don’t take no for an answer. Fight for yourself.”
Bracelets are available now for purchase at Rheams Diamond Shop, located at 111 N. Cuyler, or contact the store at (806) 665-2831 for information or to set up a time.
