Melissa Rodriguez is recognized by Hays County officials during Dating Violence Awareness Month. (Photo courtesy of Hays County)

It was five years ago when Melissa Rodriguez’ mother, who is a nurse, urged her to get her annual mammogram.

Rodriguez, who has devoted a lifetime in service to women and her community, considered skipping the exam due to her busy schedule.

There Rodriguez realized she had the beginning stages of breast cancer forming. The two considered leaving it, as there was ...