Then I first sat down to write this story, my objective was to educate the readers about breast cancer in men. I wanted to list the statistics, make our readers understand that even though breast cancer is 100% more likely to occur in women, according to The American Cancer Society approximately 2030 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed among men in the United States. I wanted to walk through the facts, and the figures, the diagnosis and the prognosis, but then I had the pleasure of meeting two of the most inspirational people I have met in a very long time, Unis and Vida Matthews. This couple changed my mind. After such an inspiring interview, I could only focus on the positives.

Unis Matthews has been diagnosed with cancer on four individual occasions. In 2003 Vida and Unis remember thinking “here we go again” when doctors informed them that the hard knot that Unis had discovered in his chest while exercising was breast cancer.

Fortunately, surgery was done quickly. This would prove advantageous for Unis as the mass was 2.5 centimeters away from his chest wall. If prompt action hadn’t been taken Unis risked the cancers rapid advancement.

Throughout all of Unis’ primary health events, the couple have been active partners- key word being partners- in their recovery process. Vida said that staying informed, doing research and discussing treatment options has played a major role in their progression through trying times, but that wasn’t the only thing they did

Vida said,

“My focus is on thriving, not just surviving.”

During all of her husband’s health issues, focusing on something unrelated to Unis’ health gave them an outlet. “During Unis’ breast cancer bout, I chose to focus on the color purple because it denotes power and royalty,” Vida said. “We asked everyone we knew to eat, wear, burn candles, buy or just think and say purple on the day of the surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation treatments.” Vida has used this as well as self-talk, dance and exercise to avoid fear and frustration from taking over. Vida said her spirituality also kept the family grounded, “Through all of it, I had to remember that my God says that no matter what happens, it’s going to always be alright.”

Many of us face trials and tribulations throughout our lives. Educate yourself about your options, surround yourself with motivating people and have belief in a higher power.

“I am a firm believer in what you speak about, you bring about. One of my mottos is ‘fake it ’til you make it,”

says Vida.

“I always arm myself with a positive confident attitude and keep in mind the words of my oldest daughter, even a pillar needs support”.

Despite the odds, despite the physical and mental anguish, Unis and Vida Matthews have managed to remain positive and bring their testimony to others. Unis and Vida are currently active members of ABCD (After Breast Cancer Diagnosis), a mentoring organization that provides support for patients diagnosed with breast cancer. Unis admits that he is the only male in these groups and he encourages women to get their mates involved. “You need your significant other to be here with you”! Unis says emphatically. The key to beating this thing is having a support system and having faith in GOD! God will not let you endure more than you can handle and he is with you every step of the way.

-Sherice Holliman
Finding out that you have cancer is hard. Getting information to help you should not be. Please call the American Cancer Society for help. 800.227.2345 or locally at 414.374.9445.