The American Cancer Society, Loudon Avenue Christian Church Faith Health Ministry, HCA Lewis Gale Medical Center, Carilion Clinic/Every Woman’s Life, New Horizons Healthcare, Myriad Genetics, 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, “You’ve Got the Power” is celebrating its 5th year. The event takes place on Thursday, September 24, beginning at 5:30 pm, at St. John’s Episcopal Church, located at the corner of Elm Avenue and Jefferson Street in downtown Roanoke.
Sisters’ Night Out is open to all and free of charge, and features local physicians, cancer and wellness specialists, and breast cancer survivors sharing their knowledge and experiences with the participants. The Mistress of Ceremonies, Joy Sutton, brings her upbeat attitude to guide the evening’s agenda. The keynote speaker is Ms. Fredda Bryan, Associate Director, Portsmouth Partnership to Beat Breast Cancer, who will deliver a powerful and dynamic message. Featured speakers also include Ms. Takiyah “Tee” Barlow, Certified Group Fitness instructor, medical expert Dr. Karanita Ojomo, Radiation Oncologist, and Ms. Temeca Manns, a young breast cancer survivor. There will also be a special surprise guest to bring even more excitement to the evening.
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.
“We want to take this opportunity to talk about women’s overall health,” stated Eileen Lepro, Chief Executive Officer, New Horizons Healthcare. “So, we’re also featuring presentations that will inspire women to practice self-care and focus more on their own wellness and quality of life.”
Added Linda Manns, RN, MSN, Community Health Faith/Parish Nurse at Loudon Avenue Christian Church, “Sisters’ Night Out” is open to all women in our community, so please bring along a “sister” and enjoy the fun, while we’re learning everything we can about preventing and treating breast cancer and chronic disease. “
Local vendors offering services and products of interest to women will be present. There will also be door prize drawings and gifts donated by various sponsors and vendors.
For more information, contact ACS at 774-2716 or New Horizons Healthcare at 362-5158, ext. 106.
