Cancer Awareness Fun Walk set for October 15

HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital Cancer Care Center is hosting a 1.5 mile Breast Cancer Awareness Fun Walk for survivors and supporters on Saturday, Oct. 15 from 8:30 to 11 a.m. at Moody Park in Fairview Heights (rain or shine). This is a free event to all, but donations of any amount are being accepted. The donations will be used to fund transportation needs for patients in long-term treatment. Family, friends, and co-workers are invited to come together for this community event to make a difference. 

Breast cancer can develop in women of every age, race and ethnic group. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 250,000 women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer this year, and approximately 43,250 women will die. Breast cancer in men is not as common, but it does happen, affecting about 2,710 American men each year. Fortunately, the death rate for those diagnosed with breast cancer has decreased significantly due to early detection. 

Dr. Camille Williams, Medical Director, HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Radiation Oncology Center, shared, “A breast cancer diagnosis and journey is very difficult. However, the support of family, friends and kind strangers who come alongside our patients have made all the difference. This event is to recognize patients’ past and present journeys, offer visible support and kindle comradeship in our community. The donations from our supporters will help relieve some of our patients’ financial burdens, especially as it relates to transportation, which is a barrier to care and challenge in this region.” 

This walk is also presented by HSHS Medical Group, Prairie Cardiovascular, Cancer Care Specialists of Illinois, New Life Congregation, The Rec Complex of Fairview Heights and Medical Physics Consulting. 
All participants will receive a free t-shirt (while supplies last) and an event goodie bag along with additional health information. Refreshments will also be provided. 

Register for the walk online. Registration will not be available the day of the event, but donations will be accepted. Donations can also be mailed to HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital Foundation, 1 St. Elizabeth’s Blvd., O’Fallon, IL 62269. Please note “Cancer Center Walk” on the check.

For more information, please call Christy Koenigstein, patient navigator at St. Elizabeth’s Radiation Oncology Center, at 618-607-5545