Women over the age of 40 should have a mammogram each year. Unfortunately, many don't. If they did, we could reduce the numbers of deaths associated with this terrible disease by more than 30%.
Hopefully someday we won't need a Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The way to work toward a reduction in the incidence of breast cancer is to ensure that every woman knows about it and takes the steps for prevention and early detection.
There are several important events taking place this month and next month in the Phoenix area:
On October 4, 2009 you can participate in City of Hope's Walk Against Breast Cancer. Registration begins at 6 a.m. at Salt River Project, 1600 N. Priest Drive in Tempe. The Phoenix Walk for Hope to Cure Breast Cancer is a 5k Timed Run/5k Walk that supports the City of Hope-Banner Bone Marrow Transplant Program and Cancer Screening & Prevention Program located at the Banner Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center, as well as lifesaving breast cancer research, treatment and education programs at City of Hope. The Walk travels through The Phoenix Zoo. Post-walk festivities include music, entertainment, food, vendor booths, a kids' zone and awards ceremony. Call 800-732-7309 for more information.
On October 11, 2009 the Komen Race For The Cure consists of a 1 Mile Family Fun Run/Walk, Early Start 5K Run for Breast Cancer Survivors, 5K Competitive Run, and 5K Run and 5K Walk in downtown Phoenix. All events are non-competitive, but times will be displayed. The race starts at 17th Avenue and Adams St., takes participants around downtown Phoenix, and finishes east of 17th Avenue and Jefferson Street. Activities will take place at Wesley Bolin Plaza and the Capitol Lawn. Registration begins at 6 a.m. Proceeds from the Komen Race for the Cure® help fund important breast cancer research as well as breast health initiatives on a local level. About 75% percent of net proceeds generated stays in Central and Northern Arizona while the remaining 25% goes to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Award and Research Grant Programs. Call 602-346-CURE (2873) for more information.
On October 17, 2009 pilates enthusiasts can join Remedy PM and raise money for The Breast Cancer Research Foundation® through donations during a special “Pilates in the Park” fundraising class. The outdoor class will be held from 10 a.m. to noon at Chaparral Park in the North picnic area. The park is located at the SE corner of Hayden and Jackrabbit in Scottsdale. The class itself will take place during the first hour, followed by personal instruction from Dr. Mary King who will go over self-breast exams and how the lymphatic system is affected by touch. Instructors will also discuss the health and exercise benefits of Pilates and massage. For every $5 donation to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation, class participants will be entered into the “Remedy Raffle” which will include prizes such as massages, acupuncture sessions, nutrition consultations, private Pilates sessions and Remedy PM goodies. Each class participant will also receive $20 coupons towards massage at Remedy. Lunch is included with a donation. RSVP recommended by calling 480-699-8160.
On November 13 - 15, 2009, during the Breast Cancer 3-Day, thousands of women and men will unite and walk 60 miles to honor those affected by breast cancer, and to raise money for research. Walk at your own pace, and stop whenever you feel you should. Call for more info (800) 996-3DAY.
On November 7, 2009, the American Cancer Society will host an event at Tempe Beach Park. Making Strides Against Breast Cancer is a noncompetitive walk to raise awareness and dollars to fight breast cancer. Pledges are dedicated to life-saving American Cancer Society research, education, patient support, and advocacy programs to defeat the disease. The event takes place at Tempe Beach Park. For more information, call 602-952-7504.
In April, Tri For The Cure Arizona includes an adult sprint triathlon, an adult relay sprint triathlon, an adult sprint duathlon and a youth sprint triathlon. This an all women's event.
Arizona Breast Cancer Resources
Breast Cancer Network of Strength, Phoenix Office
Arizona Cancer Center at University of Arizona
Arizona Institute for Breast Health
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