Educational & Social Event to Include Entertainment, Music & Panel Discussion by Cancer Participants & Caregivers
WHAT: LGBT and Cancer Event: Creating Compassionate Community. Everyone in the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgendered (LGBT) community is invited to an afternoon of information, entertainment & fun. This educational & social event will include music performed by Aleah Shaye, a Valley of the Sun singer/songwriter who is 8 years cancer-free after treatment for cervical cancer; & Lindsay Owen, a popular solo artist who currently hosts the Open Mic Night at Mama Java’s Coffee House. After a lunch prepared & served by Zuppa’s Bistro, there will be a panel presentation by members of the LGBT community who have experienced cancer. These presentations will help to put a personal face on cancer in our community. All attendees will be invited to participate in a roundtable discussion to identify the special needs of LGBT individuals with cancer & determine how their family & friends can better serve these needs. The gathering will close with a ritual to remember those who have died from the disease & to celebrate and bless those living with cancer.
WHEN/WHERE:
Saturday, March 15th, 1 - 5 pm. Free. On the grounds of The Wellness Community, 360 E. Palm Lane near downtown Phoenix. RSVP required by March 13th.
WHO: Anyone in the LGBT community and/or those whose life has been affected by cancer is invited to this educational & social event. Research suggest that LGBT individuals may be at greater risk for breast & ovarian cancer, lung cancer & cancers liked to HPV, such as cervical & anal cancer. Because many delay routine medical care due to past negative experiences with providers & fear of mistreatment, they are less likely to receive vital cancer prevention education, early detection & access to treatment. Rates of ovarian cancer are higher among women, including lesbians, who have not had children or used oral contraceptives. Lesbians also access gynecological care less frequently than heterosexual women, which can result in later diagnosis of cervical, ovarian or breast cancer. Studies have found that gay men have a greater risk of anal cancer primarily due to an increased rate of HPV infection, thought to be present in more than half of all gay & bisexual men. Colorectal cancers can be reduced by early detection, removal of precancerous polyps & access to treatment in the earliest stages of the disease.
In 2008, The Wellness Community in Phoenix will host more than 8,000 visits from people with cancer & their loved ones at its professionally-led support groups, educational workshops, nutrition & exercise seminars & stress reduction classes. This national not-for-profit organization, with a regional facility in Phoenix, also provides free, drop-in programs 6 days a week in a home-like environment.
CONTACT: For more info and/or to RSVP, please contact The Wellness Community at (602) 712-1006 or visit: twccaz.org.