MADISON, Miss. (WJTV) – Longtime Madison Mayor Mary Hawkins Butler has been diagnosed with breast cancer.

The Madison County Journal reported Hawkins Butler, who has served as mayor for 43 years, is currently undergoing treatment.

“I believe in the power of prayer. Prayer is more powerful than anything. I am taking treatments, and I’ve asked the Lord to bless the treatment with his healing hands and to make me whole. I do truly believe there is more for me to do in Madison and I want him to use me,” she told the newspaper.

Hawkins Butler said she was diagnosed with breast cancer this summer.

The mayor’s announcement comes during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is held in October.

According to the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH), Mississippi has one of the highest breast cancer death rates in the nation, yet more than one-quarter of women in the state do not receive regular screenings that could save their lives. 

Health officials said screening mammograms are important because they can find signs of cancer before they can be felt by you or your provider. They said detecting cancer early means quicker treatment, more effective treatment, a better chance of recovering, and less risk to your health and life.

Click here for more information about breast cancer from MSDH.