Greetings. March is the month that we recognize colon cancer. The ribbon color is dark blue. We encourage you to have regular screening beginning at the age of 45. A colonoscopy is recommended to identify polyps and remove them before they turn into cancer. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. Screening tests include colonoscopy, FIT, the Guaiac fecal occult blood test, Cologuard, and flexible sigmoidoscopy,
March is also kidney cancer awareness and that ribbon color is burnt orange. Kidney cancer is also called renal cancer. It is one of the 10 most common cancers in adults. The American Cancer Society highly recommends you have regular CT scans, MRI and ultrasounds.
Multiple myeloma cancer is a cancer of plasma cells and its ribbon color is burgundy. Screening is done through regular bloodwork.
March is also anal cancer and its color of ribbon is purple and lime green, anal cancer starts in the anal canal. People at higher risk are recommended to have a regular anal cytology test (anal pap test) or anoscopy.
The Charleston Mayor’s Charity Ball will be March 29 at the David Alford Auditorium. It begins at 6 p.m. Please make plans to be there. Tickets may be purchased from board members. For further information, you may contact Carolyn Johnson at 662-647-1346.
We are still working on our preparations for the Rally for a Cure, which is scheduled for April 12 at the old National Guard armory in Charleston. The walkathon is 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. on the Shade Street walking trail behind the East Tallahatchie School District office. You may contact Mayor Sedrick Smith at 662-647-4171 or Lisa Moore at 662-809–0208. The Rally itself is from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. We are encouraging everyone to come out and participate in this event.
Every family has been touched by this disease called cancer, and, as we know, cancer never sleeps. Your donations have helped a lot of families in Tallahatchie County. God loves a cheerful giver. Your donations are much appreciated and we can’t thank you enough. Donations may be sent to Rally for a Cure, P.O. Box 971, Charleston MS 38921, or you may contact any board member. For more information, call 662-752-9267.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come before you today seeking your guidance and healing. We pray for those battling cancer for their strength, courage and hope. Grant them wisdom from their medical team and may the treatment be effective and well tolerated. Surround them with loving support and care and let them feel Your presence in their darkest moments. Renew their bodies and spirits, and grant them a full recovery. We also pray for those who have lost loved ones. May their memories be a source of comfort and inspiration. In your holy name we pray. Amen.
