A few simple clicks online to schedule a screening mammogram could save a woman’s life when it comes to early breast cancer detection. 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. Midwest Breast Care, a service of the hospitals of HCA Midwest Health System—the largest healthcare network and private-sector employer in Kansas City—is marking the 27th anniversary of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month by emphasizing the importance of early detection and encouraging women to register online for screening mammograms or visit one of eight HCA Midwest hospitals for walk-in mammograms.
HCA Midwest Health System is also a major supporter of the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer fund-raising event scheduled to take place at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 27, at Liberty Memorial in Kansas City, Mo. In addition to sponsorship, HCA Midwest plans to support the walk by signing up 300 walkers who are motivated by personal and professional reasons to raise money to help in the cure and fight against breast cancer. HCA Midwest’s fund-raising goal is $20,000—money that will help save potential lives, help people get well, stay well, find a cure for breast cancer and fight back.
HCA Midwest will also host the Young Survivor Coalition of Kansas City’s fifth annual “In Living Pink” Lady Luck Vegas Casino Game Night gala from 6:30 p.m. to midnight on Sept. 15 at the Sheraton in Overland Park. The fast-paced event features exciting charitable gaming to raise funds to provide free programs, resources, support and education to young women during one of the most challenging times of their lives.
“We all visualize a world with more birthdays and less breast cancer,” says Mel Lagarde, president of HCA Midwest Health System. “Our participation in and support of these important events signify our hospital staff and physicians’ commitment to helping save lives.”
In addition to Making Strides Against Breast Cancer and In Living Pink, several HCA Midwest hospitals will host events and special promotions throughout October.
Belton Regional Medical Center will host is third annual Ladies Night Out, “Bunco for Breast Cancer,” from 6 to 8:30 p.m. on Oct. 4 at the hospital, 17065 S. 71 Hwy., Belton, Mo. Stephanie Graff, MD, Midwest Cancer Care Physicians breast oncologist, will present a short program on breast cancer. Complimentary food will be served and guests will be eligible for door prizes and can shop vendor booths. The cost is $10 per person with proceeds going to Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. T-shirts will be available for $10 and guests may purchase a $5 luminary to be displayed in the hospital’s memorial garden during the event with proceeds also going to Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. Space is limited and registration is required by calling (816) 361-4428.
Centerpoint Medical Center will host a Women’s Health Fair from 9 a.m. to noon on Oct. 20 in the Centerpoint Medical Center lobby. Guests will receive health information and free screenings.
Menorah Medical Center will kick-off the month’s activities with its third annual Pink Power Ride on Sept. 29. The 100-mile charity poker ride will leave from the Menorah campus at 10 a.m. following a free breakfast. The ride, sponsored by Gail’s Harley-Davidson, will benefit the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Again Breast Cancer. Menorah will also host its annual PINK public open house from 4 to 6 p.m. on Oct. 2, which includes walk-in mammogram screenings, free bra fittings, pink ribbons and a balloon release. Tina Herold of Overland Park and Bret Miller of Prairie Village, both young breast cancer survivors who were chosen as two of 11 “Models of Courage” for Ford’s Warriors in Pink national breast cancer awareness campaign, will share their stories of hope.
Overland Park Regional Medical Center (OPRMC) is going pink, too, and will host “Mammos and Pedis” during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Each woman who receives a mammogram during October receives a complimentary pedicure kit and will also be entered for a complimentary spa pedicure donated by The Nailery at Oak Park Mall. Overland Park Regional employees will also raise awareness for breast cancer with fund-raising events such as bake sales. The hospital’s gift shop and café will donate a portion of their October proceeds to the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. The entire campus will be “Painted Pink” to celebrate the lives saved through early detection and to serve as a visual reminder to take action against breast cancer.
The care teams at Midwest Breast Care understand women’s busy lives and offer eight convenient locations throughout the metro for routine screening mammograms. Locations include Centerpoint Medical Center, Lafayette Regional Health Center, Lee’s Summit Medical Center, Menorah Medical Center, Overland Park Regional Medical Center, Research Belton Hospital, Research Medical Center and Research Medical Center Brookside Campus. Extended hours, Saturday appointments and walk-in screenings are available at several locations.
Centerpoint Medical Center, Menorah Medical Center, Overland Park Regional Medical Center and Research Medical Center are accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC), a program administered by the American College of Surgeons following a rigorous evaluation process.
Midwest Breast Care uses advanced technology including digital mammography and MammoPad®—a soft foam cushion for use during screening for maximum comfort—and comprehensive follow-up services and breast cancer treatment options. Midwest Breast Care also offers MammoSite® at Menorah Medical Center and Research Medical Center. MammoSite is a targeted, breast-conserving radiation therapy for treating breast cancer. MammoSite allows women to receive treatment in five days rather than five to seven weeks for conventional radiation, minimizing both exposure of healthy tissue and side effects.
“Studies show early detection is the best protection when fighting breast cancer,” says Darryl Nelson, MD, chief medical officer of HCA Midwest Health System. “Our physicians know how vital screening mammograms are. We also know the decisions and choices during the time following a diagnosis are directed to one simple goal—achieving the best possible outcomes.”
The hospital breast centers that comprise Midwest Breast Care offer the community an ongoing comprehensive program of breast education, screening, diagnostics and treatment. “People diagnosed with breast cancer in the Kansas City metro area have caring, progressive and innovative programs to make a cancer journey less complex and confusing,” says Dr. Nelson.
Go to MidwestBreast.com or call (816) 823-0011 or (913) 339-9102 to learn more about HCA Midwest Health System breast health locations and hours, capabilities and special events.