Geaux Pink Events Raise Awareness and Funds for Local Cancer Center

Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center at St. Tammany Parish Hospital is announcing the start of its Geaux Pink program.

 

Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center at St. Tammany Parish Hospital 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 Leslie Landry, development director for the 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, 1,048 people were reached through Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center at St. Tammany Parish Hospital’s 38 free cancer screenings, which includes breast cancer screenings.

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 St. Tammany and Washington parishes. 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,” Landry said. “Everyone has been very supportive of Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center at St. Tammany Parish Hospital, 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 (985) 276-6845 or visit www.marybird.org/stph/geauxpink.

Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center at St. Tammany Parish Hospital provides comprehensive cancer care that strives to positively impact the lives of cancer patients and their families on the Northshore. Services include chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery, as well as patient navigation, clinical trials and free community screenings. Not only do patients have access to these vital cancer services and high quality cancer care, but these services are readily available close to home.