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Cape Fear Valley Health recognizes NICU team members during Breast Cancer Awareness Month

By Staff Report, posted Nov 4, 2026 on BizFayetteville.com

Pictured left to right (Kodi Kinard, Jennifer Walker, Heather Pearce, Dr. Mary Terrell)

In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Cape Fear Valley Health honored four employees in its Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) who have faced breast cancer while dedicating their careers to caring for some of the hospital’s most vulnerable patients.

Their personal journeys reflect strength, resilience and the importance of having a supportive community while navigating life’s challenges.

Cape Fear Valley Health is recognizing the following NICU team members:

For Kinard, her experience with breast cancer has strengthened her ability to connect with and support others facing difficult circumstances.

“My journey through breast cancer in 2012–2013 has deeply shaped how I connect with and support others,” Kinard said in a press release. “Walking that path myself gave me a profound understanding of vulnerability and resilience, which has ultimately helped me guide and comfort others as they navigate their own difficult journeys.”

Walker, who was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer in October 2023, has long been an advocate for breast cancer awareness. Before her diagnosis, she supported breast cancer awareness initiatives and organized events to help educate others about the disease.

Following her diagnosis, Walker underwent chemotherapy, radiation and breast surgery. Throughout her treatment and recovery, she received encouragement and support from her medical providers, coworkers and the Cape Fear Valley Health community.

“My coworkers gave me encouragement, gift packages and a meal train to give me space for healing,” Walker said in a press release. “Returning back to work, I was welcomed with hugs and well wishes from all who knew my fight.”

Throughout October, Cape Fear Valley Health joined communities nationwide in recognizing Breast Cancer Awareness Month, honoring survivors, supporting those currently undergoing treatment and remembering those who have lost their lives to the disease.

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