Every October, Upshur County resident Cynthia Clark turns her front fence on the 100 block of Old Highway 271 North into a striking reminder of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The fence, which stretches about 500 feet, is lined with more than 2,200 bras that have been donated by friends, neighbors and even a few from abroad.
How the fence began
Clark, a Gilmer‑area woman who survived a 2003 breast cancer diagnosis and double mastectomy, says the idea started with a single bra. “I just wanted to hang one up. That was the original. Just put one out there by the mailbox to give my support to breast cancer awareness,” she explained.
After she posted the first bra, others began adding theirs without any formal request. Over the years the collection grew, reaching a peak of about 2,200 bras during the month of October. “It draws attention,” Clark said, noting that a few bras have even arrived from Germany.
Impact on the community
The colorful display has caught the eye of many locals, including Camp County resident Helen Ray. After seeing the fence, Ray decided to schedule a mammogram. “Everything came back good,” she reported after a biopsy, adding that she was grateful she took the step.
Clark urges anyone who feels something is off to get checked promptly. “It could be nothing, or it could save your life,” she said.
Expanding the message
This year, Clark’s three‑year‑old grandson asked why men don’t have a similar reminder. In response, she added a few ties to the fence, encouraging men to see a doctor when needed.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month was launched by the American Cancer Society in 1985, and Clark’s fence continues to serve as a grassroots reminder that early detection saves lives.
Original reporting: KLTV 7 Tyler (news) — read the source article.
