‘Screen to Save’ was the theme for Second Missionary Baptist Church’s Colorectal Cancer workshop after the Sunday service. Wellness Director Lanese Campbell worked closely with other ministry leaders to present the workshop.
Claudia Barajas, Caree McAfee and Denise Buenrostro of the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville arrived at Second Missionary Baptist Church (#SMBC) fully prepared. In addition to the literature on colorectal and other types of cancer, they provided nutritious, healthy snacks and drinks. After the interactive workshop, each of the participants was asked to complete two short follow up worksheets. The attendees were surprised with $10 Kroger gift cards, and the workshop went so well that both the recipients and medical professionals vowed to return for future symposiums.
A powerful and engaging keynote address was delivered by Dr. Christina (Edwards) Bailey MD. She is a GI surgical oncologist in Nashville. She is currently licensed to practice medicine in Tennessee and Texas. A gastroenterologist is a physician with dedicated training and unique experience in the management of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and liver.
Navita Gunter is the founder/CEO of the Cervical Cancer Coalition (CCCT). She was also on hand to offer her personal and professional input. She joined other participants in the interactive ‘question and answer’ portion of the day’s event. In addition to being an informed participant, she is a strong, cervical cancer survivor, loving grandmother, founder of CCCT, motivational speaker, poet and author.
With various types of cancer, there are age markers that each person should heed warning signs and take preventative measures to assure being cancer free. In the event that an individual’s test is found positive, early detection is always better as it allows for a better window of time to take action.
Studies show that colon and other cancer screenings save lives. Screening detects precancerous polyps and allows them to be removed before turning into cancer. Screening also helps find colon cancer at an early stage when treatment often leads to a cure.
The literature handed out seemed to be as informative as the presenters. As each one of them spoke to the full house attendees, uninterrupted captivation was clearly seen on all faces.
First Lady Rutha Barlow joined the shepherd of the house, Bishop Calvin C. Barlow. Bishop and Mrs. Barlow continue to work diligently with Wellness Director Campbell and other team members to promote healthier, more productive lifestyles for the congregation.
For cancer information and support, call 1-800-227-2345 any time, day or night, or visit www.cancer.org.
