Advocate, survivor of men’s breast cancer works to help others

Men’s Breast Cancer Awareness Week, observed Oct. 17-23, shines a light on a lesser-known truth: Men can get breast cancer too. Early detection saves lives, yet symptoms like lumps or skin changes are often overlooked.

Cecil Herrin knows this firsthand. Fourteen years ago, he found a pebble-sized lump in his right breast.

“In 2011, I went to a male doctor for about nine months trying to get a mammogram,” Herrin explained. “And I went to him about every three months because it was growing.”

But Herrin didn’t give up. After being told by his regular doctor that there was nothing wrong with him, he decided it was time for a second opinion. Eventually, in late December 2011, he got that mammogram. Herrin celebrated his birthday on Jan. 1, 2012, and two days later, on Jan. 3, he was diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer. Two weeks later, he had a mastectomy.

“You know your body better than anybody else,” Herrin said. “If you feel something like a lump, you need to get it checked by your doctor, and if that doctor tells you, ‘It’s nothing,’ go see another doctor.”

According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, an estimated 2,800 men in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2025, and approximately 510 are expected to die from it. The lifetime risk for an American man to develop breast cancer is about 1 in 726.

As a survivor himself, Herrin transformed his diagnosis into a mission — dedicating his life to supporting other men facing breast cancer and raising awareness that could change outcomes for many others.

From organizing walks and hosting basketball games to sharing his experience through public talks at various corporations and organizations, Herrin has used these opportunities to raise more than $100,000 for the Georgia Cancer Center at Augusta University.

“I knew the moment I woke up from (mastectomy) surgery, God had a purpose for me,” Herrin said. “I knew I could run my mouth, and I was supposed to use that gift to be an advocate for men’s breast cancer.”

His unwavering generosity and drive inspired the creation of the Cecil Herrin Men’s Cancer Support Fund. This fund eases some of the burden of treatment by providing gas cards, covering overnight lodging and helping with other essential needs for male cancer patients.

“This year will mark 10 years that I’ve been raising money for the Augusta University Foundation, and I’m still raising money every year to help men with any kind of cancer,” Herrin shared. “As of now, I’ve helped over 2,000 men in the CSRA and surrounding counties, and we’re even helping one man right now from Alaska.”

While Herrin may not host as many events as he did in the past, he still shares his story every chance he gets. Whether through public speaking engagements or personal conversations, he knows the impact it can have.

He’s received heartfelt accounts from women who, after hearing him speak, urged their husbands to seek medical attention for suspicious lumps. Others have told him they were inspired to schedule mammograms for themselves. These moments confirm what Herrin already believes: His message saves lives.

“The bottom line is I really care about people,” Herrin said. “That’s my legacy. And I hope that people realize that you’ve got to have a passion for helping other people.”

If you would like to support a cause you’re passionate about or contribute to the Cecil Herrin Men’s Cancer Support Fund, please email Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement or call 706-721-4001.