SFWhealth
Making A Difference Plan, Prepare and Act
by JoAnn Yanez • Photos by Julie Prairie Photography
T
he American Cancer Society (ACS), in a first-of-its-kind initiative, formed ACS Cancer Connect this year. ACS Cancer Connect is a volunteer group charged with raising community cancer awareness. The group is composed of medical professionals, cancer survivors and community leaders. Their mission is to increase public education and outreach with a goal of creating a world of less cancer and more birthdays. Members are involved in every aspect of media, from broadcast to print and social media. Messages are ‘tweeted’, posted to Facebook and presented to community groups and non-profits. Volunteers are using their voices to spread cancer awareness and they have already reached out to more than 65,000 South Dakotans, spreading a message of cancer prevention and outreach. This year alone, ACS estimates that more than 4,400 people will be diagnosed with cancer in our state. That translates into 12 people every day hearing the words ‘you have cancer’. But, the good news is that two-thirds of all cancers are preventable. One of the ACS Cancer Connect messages making its way to South Dakotans has the help of local chefs and dietitians. A recent blog in Rapid City highlighted healthier eating for cancer prevention. 92
SIOUX FALLS WOMAN • august/september 2012
Top row, Left to Right: Annie Johnson, Kelly Smith, Katie Van Beek, Dr. Delf Schmidt-Grimminger. Seated, Left to Right: Charlotte Hofer, Dr. Gayle Reardon, and Chair Dr. Kathleen Schneekloth.
Three basic steps can make all the difference… Plan, prepare and act. 1) Plan – think ahead. Don’t wait until you are starving and then first try to find something to eat. Chances are an unhealthy snack or meal will make it into your belly. 2) Prepare – keep healthy foods around the house and office. Know what your triggers are. 3) Act – follow through with your commitment to a healthier you. The ACS Cancer Connect points out that there are other simple preventive steps we can take to decrease our cancer risk. Avoid tobacco.
Eat right for life – five or more servings of fruits and vegetables a day, and meals with lean proteins, whole grains, and no processed meats. Get moving – aim for five or more exercise sessions a week. Talk to your doctor about cancer screening. Protect your skin year round. ACS Cancer Connect wants people to know they have the power to prevent cancer. Just a few proactive steps can do so much to bring down your cancer risk.
“I hope to accomplish an increased awareness of cancer in our community. Not only how to treat it, but ways to detect