Members from area wide sororities, civic and Masonic chapters have joined together to promote healthy living and breast cancer awareness. Each organization is contributing to the planning and sponsorship of an upcoming event focusing on women’s empowerment, health and well-being.
Members have planned “One Team, One Dream: Roanoke Valley Ladies Unmasking a Cure,” from noon to 4:30 p.m. Saturday at Kirkwood Adams Community Center in Roanoke Rapids.
This collaboration will significantly strengthen the work of the local health organizations as well as national foundations seeking to improve the health outcomes for women in the Roanoke Valley area. The group is comprised of members of local women’s organizations that are committed to supporting women through public service, leadership and scholarship.
For the event Saturday, a Mardi Gras theme will be used to provide informative presentations, interactive vendors and critical health information free for the public.
Featured motivational speaker will be Sen. Erica Smith-Ingram, NC State Senate Dist. 3. Entertainment will include fashions by Felisha Bullock from New York Fashion Week, line dancing, Weldon High School cheerleaders, Zumba session, gospel singers, “get fit” sessions and music. Mardi Gras favors and New Orleans-style food will be available at no cost.
“This is a remarkable effort and an unprecedented show of unity in our area,” said Audrey Hardy, RVBCC project coordinator. “And it is being done to address one of our most serious health disparities. We are hoping to improve the overall health outcomes in our area by increasing the information sources for improving women’s health.”
Said Patricia Peele, women’s health educator: “Breast cancer is something that all women and a lot of families are affected by. Therefore, it is a great common denominator for bringing us together for the fight. This collaborative will expand outreach efforts to support women across the continuum, whether they need to know their risks or what resources are available if they are diagnosed.”
These groups are working in support of the Roanoke Valley Breast Cancer Coalition and the Rural Health Group, Inc. The Roanoke Valley Breast Cancer Coalition, in partnership with the Gregory B. Davis Foundation is sponsored by the Susan G. Komen-Triangle to the Coast Affiliate. The Rural Health Group’s Women’s Health Outreach program is sponsored by the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade.