According to the American Cancer Society, screening exams for early breast cancer detection—before symptoms begin—are one of the best ways to fight the disease that is the second leading cause of cancer death in women. Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute at HCA Midwest Health—a leader in cancer care in the region— is marking the 31st anniversary of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month by emphasizing the importance of early detection and encouraging women to request an appointment online for screening mammograms or visit one of nine HCA Midwest Health locations offering extended screening hours or walk-in availability during October. HCA Midwest Health is Kansas City’s leading healthcare provider.
“We all visualize a world with more birthdays and less breast cancer,” says M.L. Lagarde III, President, HCA Midwest Health. “Our support of this important month of awareness signifies our commitment, 365 days a year, to helping save lives.”
“Studies show early detection is the best protection when fighting breast cancer,” says HCA Midwest Health Chief Medical Officer Darryl Nelson, M.D. “We know how vital screening mammograms are and that the decisions and choices during the time following a diagnosis are directed to one simple goal—achieving the best possible outcomes. Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute at HCA Midwest Health offers people in the Kansas City metro area diagnosed with breast cancer caring, progressive and innovative programs to make a cancer journey less complex and confusing.”
Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute at HCA Midwest Health is anchored by its four accredited hospitals—Belton Regional Medical Center, Centerpoint Medical Center, Menorah Medical Center and Research Medical Center—and complemented by cancer programs at Lafayette Regional Health Center, Lee’s Summit Medical Center and Overland Park Regional Medical Center, as well as numerous cancer care outreach sites located in surrounding communities. Patients don’t need to leave the comfort of their community hospitals in order to receive top cancer care. Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute at HCA Midwest Health offers innovative clinical research trials, tumor profiling to genetically target a patient’s unique cancer type, as well as patient navigation, genetic counseling and the most advanced treatment and technology available.
HCA Midwest Health hospitals will offer extended hours throughout October, with some offering Saturday appointments and walk-in availability, plus a complimentary gift to mammogram screening patients. For more information on Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute at HCA Midwest Health and its comprehensive services, visit hcamidwest.com/cancer. Request an appointment online for a screening mammogram at hcamidwest.com/breastcare or call (816) 823-0011.
Several HCA Midwest Health hospitals will host events throughout October, including:
Belton Regional Medical Center
Oct. 3: Hospital-wide kickoff and PINK OUT at 1 p.m. in hospital’s main lobby; the mayors from Belton, Raymore and Peculiar will do proclamations. Employees will wear pink and the hospital will be decorated with pink ribbons, designed for visual awareness of the importance of early detection of breast cancer.
Oct. 3 - 31: Mammograms and Muffins during business hours. For more information, visit beltonregionalmedicalcenter.com.
Oct. 22: The hospital will participate in breast cancer awareness activities at the Missouri Mavericks game, including patient recognition, beginning at ____ p.m. Interviews/photo opportunities available with breast cancer survivors.
Oct. 5: Annual Pink Party on the hospital campus from 4 - 6 p.m., which will include walk-in mammogram screenings, complimentary bra fittings, nail art, pink hair extensions, shopping and more. Complimentary
hors d’oeuvres and drink and inspirational balloon release at 5:30 p.m. to celebrate survivors and remember those who fought courageously. Free and open to the public; Menorah Medical Center, 5721 West 119th St., (119th St. & Nall), Entry B, Overland Park, Kan., 66209. Interviews available with oncologists. Photo opportunities available at event.
Menorah Medical Center/Overland Park Regional Medical Center
Oct. 8: PINK OUT at Scheels Overland Park Soccer Complex from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Field marshals and tournament staff will be dressed in pink attire and players will use pink soccer balls during the tournament and fans and supporters are encouraged to wear pink to show their support. In addition, Menorah Medical Center and Overland Park Regional Medical Center will have a display booth with information on their nationally accredited breast programs, including mammogram and the benefits of their latest technology, 3D mammograms. Interviews available with oncologists and medical staff. Photo/b-roll opportunities available all day.
Overland Park Regional Medical Center
Through Oct. 31: A Pink Tree of Hope displayed in the hospital’s main lobby throughout month of October. Patients and visitors can write messages of hope on the tree for their loved ones.
Oct. 16: Participating in Kick for a Cure with UMKC Women’s Soccer
Oct. 27: Participating in Pink Out, UMKC Women’s Volleyball
Both events are opportunities to raise awareness and encourage attendees to get mammograms.