NATCHEZ — When Monica Smith became free of breast cancer, she saw doors that could be opened for others.

In March, Smith was diagnosed with breast cancer, which spans back to her family history.

Smith’s grandmother Alice Donnan Mazique died in 1972 from breast cancer — while her mother, Peggie Hickombottom, was diagnosed 13 years ago and is currently in remission.

“It’s kind of something that’s been passing from one generation to the next,” Smith said.

This sparked Smith to start getting mammograms when she turned 40.

If Smith had not been on top of her doctor visits, Smith’s organization for breast cancer, Monica’s Hope, could have never been created.

Monica’s Hope, a non-profit organization, strives to raise money to fund mammograms for local women.

Additional, Monica’s Hope assists with travel expenses, to and from doctor appointments or treatment centers, as well as raising awareness for early detection of caner.

Smith said she has committed herself to make sure it is a success.

“When I went through my bout with cancer and knowing what my mom went through and knowing how it affected my grandmother, it kind of made me want to branch out and help others,” Smith said,

Smith said some women don’t think it’s important to have a mammogram. But if it were not for her own test, she wouldn’t have known that she had cancer.

“That inspired me to start Monica’s Hope,” Smith said. “If someone was diagnosed with cancer, they may need gas money to go back and fourth to the doctor.

“That is what Monica’s Hope is all about, just trying to reach out and help someone.”

Smith is currently in the process of getting Monica’s Hope recognized as a 501c3 organization.

To raise funds for mammograms and gas, Monica’s Hope will host its first breast cancer walk, which has been scheduled for Oct. 24.

The walk will take place at the Natchez High School athletic track from 6 to 8 p.m.

However, in case of bad weather, the even will be hosted inside the Natchez Mall.

Smith has invited local businesses, churches, organizations and the public to participate.

“It’s not only a breast caner walk, I want it to be a cancer walk,” Smith said. “This walk will honor all the survivors and those who fought cancer.”

Smith said Monica’s Hope is something she wanted to do in the community.

“Maybe it will inspire someone to get their mammogram,” Smith said.

All proceeds will go toward Monica’s Hope.

Donations can be made at Concordia Bank through Monica’s Hope.

Donations can also be made through Pay Pal by using the email monicashope601@aol.com.

Tickets are $10 to participate in the walk and can be purchased at the event, or prior to by calling Smith at 601-443-7998.

Smith said she wants Monica’s Hope to grow each year.

“I want it to get bigger so I can help someone with what I struggled with,” Smith said.

Currently, Smith is taking minimum applications for servies while she finalizes paper work for Monica’s Hope. To apply, call 601-443-7998.