P R E S S R E L E A S E
For Immediate Release: August 9, 2007
Contact: Christi Sheffield, 229- 312-1703
Albany, GA, August 9, 2007 - The Southwest Georgia Cancer Coalition announced today that their fourth annual RiverFront Run will be held on Saturday, October 6, 2007 in downtown Albany. The RiverFront Run is a local 5K and 1-mile walk that promotes a healthy lifestyle, and helps to raise money for the direct support of cancer patients and their families in Southwest Georgia.
The Coalition and area volunteers kicked off the upcoming 2007 RiverFront Run by donating the proceeds from last year’s event. “We are pleased to announce the success of last year’s 2006 RiverFront Run raised over $22,500 for local Community Cancer Support Grants. These grants will provide funding to local organizations in their efforts to assist cancer patients with medicine, transportation, wigs, and other needs associated with treatment and survivorship,” said Diane Fletcher, CEO.
The Community Cancer Support Grants were created in 2006 to support grassroots community efforts to help patients and their families who are coping with cancer. Nonprofit community-based health or advocacy organizations that directly support cancer patients were encouraged to apply for these funds.
The grants have 3 primary goals:
- To improve the ability of cancer patients and their families to manage their disease effectively.
- To assist organizations in the timely delivery of cancer treatment and support.
- To promote cancer education and support for cancer patients and their families from diagnosis through end of life care
The grants awarded today create opportunities to expand resources currently provided to cancer patients within their local communities. A total of four awards were granted:
Pearlman Cancer Center at South Georgia Medical Center
Pearlman Cancer Center will develop a cancer survivorship program. Grant funds will be used to assist cancer patients who have completed treatment and who now must cope with various issues and concerns related to long-term survivorship.
Tift Regional Oncology Center
With this funding, Tift Regional Oncology Center will provide direct support for cancer patients and their families in navigating the cancer care system, particularly assisting with the costs of needed medications.
The Partnership Cancer Fund
This organization, under the oversight of the Lowndes County Partnership for Health, provides direct assistance to any Lowndes County resident who receives cancer treatment. Grant funds will provide coverage for costs associated with transportation, nutritional supplements, durable medical equipment, and medications.
Pink Pals – Breast Cancer Support Group
This Americus-based support group will use grant funding to expand their outreach to women diagnosed with breast cancer. The group will provide a mentor and other assistance to help women cope with the challenges brought on by treatment and recovery.
"We would not be able to provide these grants to our local cancer patients without the wonderful participation from the community. We encourage everyone to come out to the RiverFront Run on October 6 and make a difference," said Ms. Fletcher.
RiverFront Run registration is available online at www.riverfrontrun.com and for more information about the Southwest Georgia Cancer Coalition, visit their website www.swgacancer.org.
Contact:
Christi Sheffield, Communications / Project Coordinator
Southwest Georgia Cancer Coalition
229-312-1703
email Christi Sheffield