Breast cancer survivor Libby Spicer, a Lipscomb student accounts representative, is the inspiration behind Kappa Iota Theta’s plans to participate in the cancer awareness walk.
Breast cancer survivor Libby Spicer.
Spicer is so moved by the organization’s plans that she says she may walk right along with them.
“She, in some way, has touched each and every one of our lives,” said Tenielle Buchanan, director of Lipscomb’s Intercultural Engagement and Development and Kappa Iota Theta sponsor. “This gives our students a chance to give back to someone who has given to them.”
Spicer began working in the business office in 1999. In 2006, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. During her four months of chemotherapy, she worked part-time, coming to the office between treatments.
*“If I hadn’t had this place to come to and these people—these wonderful people…” Spicer said, commenting on the role of her co-workers and friends. “That’s one thing that makes Lipscomb, Lipscomb. Everybody is so supportive.”
Kappa Iota Theta, formerly named LUMA, will be participating in the American Cancer Society walk on October 30 at LP Field. All Lipscomb students are encouraged to join. Those interested can register at the event or by contacting Jennifer Lucas with the American Cancer Society at (615) 327-0991.
In addition to trying to walk with the students, Spicer said she will to get others from the business office to participate as well.
Buchanan also explained that she and the student leaders of Kappa Iota Theta decided to participate in the cancer walk as a way to show that Lipscomb is involved in the larger community of Nashville. She said she expects to see a positive response for the event.
“I think getting students there is going to be very simplistic because it’s such a good cause,” Buchanan said.
Spicer said she was surprised and pleased when she heard that students were walking in her honor, adding that she isn’t the only one from Lipscomb who has had cancer. Spicer explained that several people on campus have been diagnosed with the disease. Most have survived, but a few have not been as fortunate as Spicer was.
“It was not a fun thing to go through,” Spicer said. “I [was] blessed that they caught it early.”
Since October is breast cancer awareness month, Kappa Iota Theta will host a talent show on Oct. 28. All of the proceeds from that event will go to support cancer research and awareness. Buchanan said she hopes these events will show Lipscomb students the importance of investing in the Nashville community.
“Our work of being students, being faculty members, is larger than the hubbub of going to classes,” Buchanan said. “It’s what we do with our God-given talents to further our outreach, to further His kingdom.”
Slideshow credit: Whitney Jarreld