Mrs. LaVerne Jackson is a native of Columbus, Georgia and a graduate of Spencer High School Class of 1960. She is an LPN who was employed with Columbus Regional Health for 40 years and retired from John B. Amos Cancer Center in 2009. She is a faithful greeter at Holsey Chapel CME Church and a recent recipient of the 2017 Community Service Award. She is the president of the Health Ministry; serve on the Christian Board of Education along with many other ministries within her church. She also honors breast cancer survivors in her church during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Along with her community, church and family responsibilities Ms. Jackson volunteers at Valley Rescue Mission feeding the hungry program.
Q: How did you get involved with West Central Georgia Cancer Coalition (WCGCC) -What is your role?
A: After retiring from John B. Amos Cancer Center, WCGCC asked me about working with them as a Community Health Advisor (CHA) because of my experience of working with cancer patients. I have been working with WCGCC for the past 7 years. I assist in the monthly Breast Cancer Screening Clinic with Dr. Kenneth L. Smith, MD, FACS at John B. Amos Cancer Center in which WCGCC partners to provide assistance to persons who meet the qualifications to offer FREE Clinical Breast Exams, Education and/or Mammograms. On behalf of the WCGCC, I provide community education and outreach during health fairs on the importance of cancer prevention.
Q: Special interest- What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
A: I like to read and go line-dancing weekly. I also love spending time with my family and helping others. I am the mother of two sons and grandmother to five grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
Q: One word that best describes the West Central Georgia Cancer Coalition?
A: If I had to say one word that best describes WCGCC, I would say, “Service”.