Key Takeaways:
- America’s Car-Mart proudly supports the fight against cancer every October with its Drive Away Cancer campaign
- Car-Mart associates share their stories of fighting cancer
Every October, America’s Car-Mart proudly goes pink for cancer awareness month. This reflects our commitment to fighting cancer through our Drive Away Cancer campaign, which encourages early detection and supports research.
For the ninth consecutive year, America’s Car-Mart is proud to make a financial contribution to the American Cancer Society. [Since 2016, Car-Mart has donated $90,000 to this worthy organization]. Additionally, Car-Mart supports Hope Cancer Resources, an organization that provides patient support, wellness services, and transportation to those navigating life with cancer.
Cancer has personally touched many of us at Car-Mart, and we’re honored to share stories of associates who faced cancer and emerged stronger. We asked what it means to work for a company that turns pink in support of the fight against cancer. Their heartfelt responses reflect the unity, compassion, and resilience of our Car-Mart family.
Join us as we celebrate their strength and their courageous battles with cancer.
Listen to Your Body: How Early Detection Saved My Life
Brandon Strong, Assistant Manager, America’s Car-Mart of Durant, Okla.
“I already love America’s Car-Mart and the seemlingly endless support for its associates. Recognizing that cancer affects everyone, including their own associates, makes me feel like Car-Mart truly cares about their associates and their associates’ loved ones.”
“A few years ago, I was feeling unwell and needing to use the bathroom constantly for weeks. After a particularly rough day, I saw my doctor, who referred me for a colonoscopy. They found and removed two precancerous polyps. About a week later, my cousin was diagnosed with colon cancer and passed away eight months later. His daughter told me that he always experienced bathroom issues but never got checked. The moral of the story: Listen to your body and get screened— it saved my life.”
Jenny’s Courageous Fight Against Breast Cancer
Jenny Riley-Winterdal, Office Manager, America’s Car-Mart of Grove, Okla.
“Turning pink in October shows that Car-Mart really cares about everyone with breast cancer, and I love that Car-Mart brings awareness every year!”
Jenny is diligent about her health, eating well, exercising, and attending regular check-ups. However, during her annual mammogram in March 2025, a concerning mass was detected. The doctor immediately ordered another mammogram to investigate further. Unfortunately, there was a mix-up with the paperwork, and the pathologist initially missed a critical piece of the puzzle. Only the first three pages of a five-page pathology report were sent to the doctor. It wasn’t until later that the final two pages were reviewed—revealing the actual diagnosis – invasive mammary carcinoma, a highly aggressive form of breast cancer.
Since then, Jenny has undergone extensive testing and started six months of chemotherapy to shrink the tumor before surgery. Despite the emotional and physical toll, Jenny continues to face each challenge with unshakable courage. She maintains a positive outlook, demonstrating resilience, strength, and hope. And she hasn’t missed a day of work. Jenny urges everyone to prioritize regular screenings because early detection is crucial. Jenny is an inspiration to us all, and we pray for her recovery.
Jenny’s story is a powerful call to action to schedule your annual check-ups and scans. Catching cancer early can make all the difference.
My Journey Through Kidney Cancer and Remission
Joanne Shaw, General Manager, America’s Car-Mart of Lawton, Okla.
“I’m so proud to work for a company that supports the American Cancer Society! I know so many lives are impacted by cancer. I hope and pray that one day they can find a cure!”
“It was two years ago that I attended the [Car-Mart] annual meeting. Feeling great and having fun! That same week, on Saturday, I found myself in the ER. I was told I had kidney cancer. The following week, I had a nephrectomy of my right kidney. It’s been a little over two years now, and I am still in remission! God is good, and yes, all the time! Thank you for everyone’s prayers! They got me through a hard time.”
Love and Courage Through Cancer
James Moore, On Call Driver, America’s Car-Mart of Chattanooga, Tenn.
“I’m happy we do it because it helps people understand that companies understand the impact it has on families, and I’m joyful we give contributions to this as well. I’m proud to be with a company that recognizes this and puts recognition out there.”
“I am the husband of someone who battled cancer. My wife Lisa and I shared 37 years of love. She was diagnosed with lung cancer after being misdiagnosed with walking pneumonia for five years. When I demanded answers, we learned her cancer had collapsed her lung and adhered to her heart. The prognosis was grim—only six months to live. Devastated, I refused to give up.
My love said it was too late. She had already given up. I would not. We enrolled in a new, experimental treatment, and we were the first in Chattanooga to try it. I told her, “I’m not ready to lose you.” She agreed to the trial—and thank God she did. It was a long and difficult process – 20 rounds of radiation, 27 chemo sessions, and countless nights and days of exhaustion. Then, finally, we got the news we had been waiting for—she was cancer-free. She rang the bell.
Those years renewed our joy—traveling, sharing with grandkids, and her passion for penny shopping. I met this beautiful lady on Valentine’s Day 1985 and married her on Valentine’s Day, 1988. She stood by me through life’s challenges.
Lisa passed away in 2021 after the cancer returned, this time in her lower lung. She faced her fate bravely, telling loved ones she loved them deeply. Her loss left a void in my life—yet I am grateful for the years we had. Cancer is a devastating monster, not just for those diagnosed but for their families, who pay an often unseen price.”
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Learn more about America’s Car-Mart support of cancer awareness:
- America’s Car-Mart Continues Its Commitment to Fighting Cancer – 2024
- America’s Car-Mart Supports American Cancer Society with $10,000 Donation – 2023
- Making a Difference Since 2004 America’s Car-Mart supports Hope Cancer Resources
At America’s Car-Mart, supporting cancer awareness is one way we give back to the communities we serve. By sharing stories, raising awareness, and encouraging early detection, we hope to inspire others to get involved and make a difference.
