Mary Bird Perkins, Gonzales Area Foundation Celebrate Second Successful Live Well Ascension Event

200+ residents screened for cancer and other conditions in fun, festive atmosphere

  (Gonzales, La.) More than 200 Ascension Parish residents took proactive measures to protect their health recently by participating in Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center’s Live Well Ascension event at St. Elizabeth Hospital. Co-hosted by the Gonzales Area Foundation for the second year in a row, screenings for five different types of cancer and other health screenings were available to attendees free of charge at the Oct. 27 event. Earlier in the day, the Foundation was recognized for its avid support of the Cancer Center with a conference room named in the group’s honor. “The Gonzales Area Foundation’s generous partnership with the Cancer Center is absolutely critical to the success of Live Well Ascension,” said Johnnay Benjamin, director of early detection & education, cancer support & outreach at Mary Bird Perkins. “Bringing prevention and early detection to the community requires many resources, and the Foundation helps us reach as many people as possible in a fun, family-friendly environment.” “We are so glad to help provide potentially life-saving services here in Ascension Parish,” said DeEtte DeArmond, a founding member of the Gonzales Area Foundation. “Lessening the burden of cancer is something we feel strongly about, so the partnership with Mary Bird Perkins is a great fit.” Live Well cancer screenings included breast, prostate, skin, colorectal and oral cavity, along with blood pressure and glucose checks. Participants who received an abnormal finding are being assisted by a patient navigator to ensure necessary follow-up care is promptly accessed. In addition to the health aspects of the event, Live Well Ascension included activities for the whole family. Food, entertainment and children’s activities were all available at no cost. Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Gonzales provides state-of-the art radiation therapy and diagnostic imaging, along with vital support services to patients and families in Ascension Parish. With highly experienced and compassionate physicians and team members, Mary Bird Perkins is a key provider within St. Elizabeth Hospital, which offers comprehensive, patient-focused cancer services. The Cancer Center offers screenings throughout the year. For more information, call (225) 644-1205 or visit marybird.org/gonzales.   About Mary Bird Perkins Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center is a regional cancer care organization that has been fighting cancer for more than 40 years. With five centers in Baton Rouge, Covington, Hammond, Houma and Gonzales, its service area encompasses 18 parishes across southeast Louisiana. For more information, please visit www.marybird.org.