By Wilson Cherry

For the Salisbury Post

Rowan Vocational Opportunities, Inc. recently concluded its “Breast Cancer Awareness” fundraiser. By raising breast cancer awareness, the hope is to educate men and women on the signs and symptoms of this cancer and empower them with information about the medical and mental support while screening is available to help with prevention, research and cures.

The effect was put forth as a part of the RVO/CVO community outreach program. Jane Brown, who serves as the administrative assistant at RVO, coordinated the event and was responsible for what meant to be both educational and enlightening as the lobby was adorned with pink ribbons and creative reminders of the significance of the event.

Brown, who is also a highly regarded baker and cook, prepared a bountiful amount of delicious sweet treats for purchase. She also acquired a beautiful array of gift baskets that were raffled to the audience which included consumers, staff, board members and parents participating. 

“We all have a number of family and friends who have experienced this dreadful disease,” Brown said. “It is our goal to encourage both men and women to become more aware of how breast cancer effects the lives of individuals and families. Early detection is the key to combatting all forms of cancer.”

The month of October was designated in 1985 as a week-long campaign by the American Cancer Society. 

In 1992, Evelyn Lauder, senior corporate vice-president for Estee Lauder, lobbied congress along with the pharmaceutical division of Imperial Chemical Industries (now part of Astra Zeneca, a leading manufacturer of oncology drugs).

Today the demand for personalization spans from clothing to specialized food and medicine. This emerging health hazard has led to greater emphasis on prevention, diagnosis and treatment based on individual characteristics such as genetic makeup, environment and lifestyles.

“Community outreach is a vital part of our efforts to help us build important collaborations and relationships in our community as good corporate citizens,” said Gary Yelton, executive director of RVO/CVO. 

All proceeds and donations for the event will be donated to the Novant Health Wallace Cancer Institute, a 32,000 square foot state-of-the-art comprehensive cancer treatment center dedicated to providing Rowan County residents with life-giving care close to home.