Backus to host Cancer Survivors Day
PrintNORWICH – More than 600 cancer survivors, their loved ones and caregivers are expected to gather at The William W. Backus Hospital Saturday, Oct. 4, to prove that life can be meaningful after a diagnosis of cancer.
Cancer Survivors Day coincides with National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The uplifting, emotional event will be held starting at 11 a.m. under an enclosed tent on the hospital grounds at 306 Washington St. in Norwich. It will include food, music, activities for kids and free health information.
This year’s keynote speaker is Doug Ulman, a young cancer survivor, athlete and director of Survivorship for the Lance Armstrong Foundation, where he has joined forces with the world champion bicyclist. For more information about Ulman, who founded the Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults, go to his web site at www.dougulman.com.
Nationally, breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death among women, as more than 40,000 die from the disease each year. Approximately one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.
Breast Cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer at Backus, encompassing 24 percent of all cancer cases, according to data collected by Backus Hospital’s Cancer Registrar. In 2002, 63 percent of the 86 breast cancers diagnosed at Backus were detected by mammogram, and 36 percent detected by patient self-examination. Mammograms are recommended annually for all women 40 and older, and women should do self-breast exams monthly.
In addition, 71 percent of breast cancers diagnosed at Backus last year were found in the earliest stages, which is well above the national average of 57 percent.
“Early detection of cancer is a lifesaver,” Backus Director of Communications Shawn Mawhiney said. “Backus Hospital is dedicated to educating the community about cancer, including the importance of mammograms and breast self-exams, which we believe is a reason why there is such a high percentage of early cancer detection at Backus.”
As part of the ongoing effort to detect cancer early and save lives, Backus Hospital will offer free mammograms and pap smears in October. The events are for women 40 years old and up who don’t have sufficient insurance. The dates are:
- Tuesday, Oct. 7, 10-11:30 a.m. at Wal-Mart in Norwich.
- Wednesday, Oct. 15, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Backus Hospital Entry Level Conference Room.
For more information or to arrange an appointment, call 823-6318.