Geaux Pink Events Raise Awareness and Funds for Local Cancer Center

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(Baton Rouge, La.) Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center is announcing the start of its Geaux Pink program aimed at raising awareness and funds for the fight against cancer – all of which remain local. Individuals, schools, businesses and sports teams are invited to join the Cancer Center in its continuing efforts to defeat this disease by hosting a Geaux Pink event during October, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. “Geaux Pink is a fun and meaningful way to raise awareness about a disease that affects so many while raising money to help fight it,” said Hallie Thompson, associate development director, Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center. “The fun and creative ideas our Geaux Pink supporters create are endless. No matter how small or large the event, when combined with others, it can truly make a difference. “ Louisiana’s breast cancer death rates are among the highest in the nation. This is due to a lack of access to care, delayed diagnosis and treatment, limited educational awareness and low utilization of preventative services.  Last year, in a continuing effort to combat these statistics, more than 4,500 people were reached through Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center’s 136 free cancer screenings, which includes breast cancer screenings. The Center partners with Woman’s Hospital to provide free breast cancer screenings throughout the Baton Rouge area. One hundred percent of the funds raised through Geaux Pink will help support these early detection and screening programs and raise breast cancer awareness throughout Baton Rouge. Examples of Geaux Pink events might include a pink dress-down day at school or the office for a donation from participants; dedicating a portion of ticket sales from a home football game; or holding a Geaux Pink car wash. “We are excited to partner with so many community members and organizations,” Thompson said. “Everyone has been very supportive of Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center, and the community’s involvement in the local fight against cancer has been tremendous. We are so grateful to see such enthusiasm.” To sign up for Geaux Pink or for more information, please call (225) 215-1221 or visit www.marybird.org/geauxpink. Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center is the most comprehensive cancer center in Louisiana offering patients the convenience of receiving high-quality, advanced care close to home. The Cancer Center is part of the National Cancer Institute Community Cancer Centers Program (NCCCP), a group of competitively selected cancer centers developing a national model for community cancer care.