Geaux Pink Events Raise Awareness and Funds for Local Cancer Center

Get Involved

  (Covington, La.) 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, more than 720 people were reached through Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center at St. Tammany Parish Hospital’s 30 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/geauxpink.