News from the American Cancer Society, SCV Unit

Fighting for a future with less cancer and more birthdays, the American Cancer Society is a nationwide, community based, voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem. The ACS is hosting two upcoming events in your neighborhood.
Bark For Life: Celebrating Canines, Fighting Cancer
Dogs are our doting companions. Their devotion is particularly precious when we’re experiencing serious illness or other major adversity. In honor of our furry caregivers, the American Cancer Society’s Bark For Life will be held on Saturday, October 24 at West Creek Park (24247 Village Circle in Santa Clarita). The event – which includes a non-competitive walk, games, contests, demonstrations, photos, and doggie social time – raises funds and awareness for the ACS fight against cancer.
“A ‘pawsome’ four-hour event, Bark For Life celebrates the love and companionship that dogs provide whether we’re going through the challenges of cancer or any life-altering event,” said Teresa Kerr, ACS Leadership Council member and Bark co-chair. “All are welcome to this heart-warming event. Bring your dog, grand-dog, or come alone. Join the fun, and don’t leave without getting a hot dog!”
Bark for Life runs from 8 a.m. to noon. Fees cost $15 for one dog and $25 for two.
Register at www.SCVBark.org.
October: Breast Cancer Awareness Month
More than 200,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer annually. Despite that number, diagnoses have actually decreased in recent years – thanks to improved mammograms and care, and ongoing research with invaluable breakthroughs.
For most females, there are few or zero risk factors to blame (besides being female and having breasts). For some, breast cancer is surreptitiously seeded in their genes. Case in point: A young lady I know recently found a breast lump and immediately sought medical attention.
A biopsy and other tests revealed an extremely rare genetic breast cancer. This was the shock of a lifetime. Only 31-years old, she and her 65-year-old mother had no prior knowledge of the genetic defect. Within two weeks, she underwent a double mastectomy and soon after eagerly returned to work. Owing to her rare cancer’s aggressive nature, her future will include periodic testing for cancer.