Ritchie to Partner with Oswego Health for "The Power of Pink" on October 19th

State Senator Patty Ritchie will again partner with Oswego Health to offer an inspirational event that will provide women with the latest information on the prevention and treatment of breast cancer, as well as the opportunity for women who meet the necessary criteria to receive or schedule free mammograms and clinical breast examinations.

On October 19th from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Oswego Health will hold its 2nd annual Power of Pink event, which will bring attention to the issue of breast cancer at the Fulton Medical Center.  The event will feature talks from several renowned physicians including Oswego Health Surgeons Allison Duggan, M.D. and Dawn Holman, M.D.; Alexander Banashkevich, M.D. of Oswego Radiation Oncology; and Steve Thomas, office manager and nurse administrator, from University Physicians Hematology / Oncology Oswego.

Thanks to the efforts of Senator Ritchie, Oswego Health has received funding that will allow women in Oswego County to receive complimentary breast cancer screenings. During the Power of Pink event, women over the age of 40 who have not had a mammogram due to financial constraints or concerns will be able to schedule free mammograms as well as clinical breast exams.  Community members can take advantage of the free breast cancer screenings from 7:00 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. the day of the event.  Appointments are recommended and can be made by calling Carin at Oswego Health Education, 315-349-5513. For individuals unable to attend the Power of Pink event mammograms may be scheduled at a later date by calling the number above.

 “A digital mammogram with computer aided detection is one of the tools I use to diagnose breast cancer,” said Surgeon and Oswego Hospital Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer Allison Duggan, M.D.  “Screening mammography remains the most practical and cost-effective study available for the early detection of breast cancer today and is an unparalleled asset in our fight against breast cancer.  I also encourage women to have a yearly clinical breast exam, which is another vital screening tool that should not be overlooked.”

According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women and is the second leading cause of death among women. Each year it is estimated that more than 220,000 women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer and more than 40,000 will die.

Senator Patty Ritchie is once again providing the funding for these vital women’s services. Last year more than 20 women received a breast health screening at no cost through the funds provided and many more received financial assistance.  “With breast cancer being the second most common form of cancer affecting women, it’s critical that females take steps—like having regular mammograms—to protect their health,” said Senator Ritchie. “I am proud to again partner with Oswego Health and am hoping that women across Central New York take advantage of this opportunity safeguard their well being.”

 “We are pleased to continue this important women’s health program,” added Oswego Health’s Director of Community Health Services Brenda LaMay, FNP.  “Women attending last year’s Power of Pink told us how beneficial it was.  It’s always a plus when we have the opportunity to educate the community on a very important topic.  We are fortunate that Senator Ritchie provided funding for this event and I hope that area women will take advantage of this wonderful opportunity and join us for the Power of Pink!”