The American Cancer Society, Loudon Avenue Christian Church’s Faith Health Ministry, HCA Lewis Gale Medical Center, New Horizons Healthcare, Myriad Genetics, Susan G. Komen, Virginia Blue Ridge and local volunteers have teamed up once again to promote cancer prevention and women’s health. The upcoming event, Sisters’ Night Out, with the theme “Courage, Strength, Choice” is celebrating its 6th year. The event takes place on Thursday, Sept. 29, beginning at 5:30 p.m., at St. John’s Episcopal Church, corner of Elm Ave. and Jefferson Street in downtown Roanoke.
Sisters’ Night Out is open to all free of charge, and features local medical providers, cancer and wellness specialists, and breast cancer survivors sharing their knowledge and experiences with the participants. The Mistress of Ceremonies, Kianna Price-Wade, brings her unique style and energy to guide the evening’s agenda.
The keynote speaker is Ms. Afira DeVries, President and CEO of United Way of Roanoke Valley, will deliver a powerful and dynamic message. Featured speakers also include medical experts Dr. Karanita Ojomo, Radiation Oncologist, Ms. Andre’ Douglas, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Ms. Takiyah “Tee” Barlow, Certified Group Fitness instructor.
The goal of this event is to raise awareness of the importance of breast cancer screening and early detection, particularly among African American women, and to break down barriers to cancer screening among this population. According to the latest ACS report, Cancer Facts and Figures 2014, African American women tend to be diagnosed with breast cancer at a later stage, and tend to have lower 5-year survival rates than white women.
