Contact: Mike Fraser, (518) 859-8518
According to the New York State Department of Health, nearly 14,000 women in New York State are diagnosed with breast cancer each year and nearly 1,000 of those women live in the Finger Lakes Region. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in American women, but it isn't a disease that is exclusive to women. Men need to be aware that they are also at risk.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and I would like to recognize some of the organizations in the Finger Lakes Region that support those fighting cancer, their loved ones, and host events that help raise money to research cures for cancer. I encourage women to talk with their doctors and schedule an exam. Taking an important step now can save lives later on. Experts agree that early detection drastically increases the odds of survival.
EMBRACE YOUR SISTERS
Fighting cancer is a tough battle, and those who are dealing with the treatments should not have to struggle to pay their bills or make ends meet. Embrace Your Sisters (EYS) is a non-profit organization that provides emergency short-term financial relief to women with breast cancer in the Finger Lakes Region.
A grant from EYS can help a woman fighting breast cancer who is unable to work due to her illness, pay the mortgage, or help offset mounting costs of medical bills and medication. The organization can also help with long-term emotional support and other vital services. Visit their Web site to find out how to apply for a grant or to see how you can donate money or volunteer your time.
MEN AGAINST BREAST CANCER
Not only is it critical that patients get proper treatment from healthcare professionals, but family, friends and loved ones should have as much information as possible to provide a nurturing, healing environment. Men Against Breast Cancer (MABC) is designed to provide support services and education for men, who in turn, can be effective caregivers for their female loved ones. To find out more information about MABC, a national, non-profit organization and, its programs and services, please visit their Web site.
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS FESTIVAL
The Breast Cancer Awareness Festival by Legacy at Fairways will be held on Saturday, October 17 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will feature live music, beer and wine crafters, a silent auction, demonstrations and much more. All proceeds from the event will go to the Elizabeth Weade Breast Cancer Fund in Victor. More information can be found at: http://www.canandaiguachamber.com/events/details/breast-cancer-awareness-festival-by-legacy-at-fairways-9734.
UPCOMING OPPORTUNITIES TO LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR HEALTH
With respect to breast cancer, or any other disease, there are many things such as genetics and family history that are beyond our control. However, staying healthy by eating right, following the advice of doctors, and exercising can help us all live better lives. Information is a critical element of good health, and there are two opportunities being held locally for you to gain greater insight into healthy living.
The Assembly Minority Greater Rochester Health Fair will take place on Thursday, October 15 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the RIT Inn and Conference Center, located at 5257 West Henrietta Road in Henrietta. Attendees will be able to receive screenings for blood pressure, vision, and hearing, get their flu shots, or register for organ and tissue donation. Seminars will provide information on a range of topics including breast care and imaging technology, how to pay for home care costs, and understanding impacts of Alzheimer's and dementia. More information can be found at www.rochesterhealthfair.com.
The Ontario County Health Fair and Flu clinic will be held on Tuesday, October 20 at 3019 County Complex Dr. in Canandaigua. The health fair will run from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The flu clinic will be open from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. This year's Health and Wellness Fair / Flu Clinic will offer yearly flu shots, a variety of local health and safety resources, free items from local vendors and drawings. More information can be found by calling the Ontario County Public Health Department at (585) 396-4343.
What do you think? I want to hear from you. Send me your feedback, suggestions and ideas regarding this or any other issue facing New York State. You can always contact my district office at (315) 781-2030 or e-mail me at kolbb@assembly.state.ny.us.