One physician's dream to make a difference prompted him to accomplish the unusual. He is a California physician, Balazs Imre Bodai, M.D., who visited Congressional offices until he solicited enough support to have a bill introduced into Congress--a bill that would allow the U. S. Postal Service to issue a 33 cent stamp.

This novel fundraising idea could possibly generate $300 million annually for breast cancer research. If the bill is approved, a 33 cent first-class stamp would allow a penny from each stamp sale to go directly to breast cancer research. To support the Breast Cancer Research Stamp Act (HR 407 and S 726) you can write to your Congressional Representative.

The National Breast Cancer Coalition is a national grassroots advocacy group created to make a difference. This group is dedicated to educating the public about breast cancer advocacy. Through its national action network, the coalition provides ways for individuals to become actively involved in the fight to stop the breast cancer epidemic. The coalition's traveling display, "Face of Breast Cancer," is a dramatic photographic display dedicated to all women who have died from breast cancer. It personalizes breast cancer statistics by placing faces with life stories of 63 women who have died from breast cancer. The first Ohio showing was featured in September 1995, by the Health Alliance.

The Health Alliance enhanced the Cincinnati showing of the "Face of Breast Cancer" by adding a Survivors' Wall. It featured photographs and biographies of Tristate women who are successfully battling the disease and celebrating life. The Survivors' Wall was embraced by the community and therefore it continues to be displayed throughout the Tristate upon community and corporate request. Onlookers express feelings of hope, and a connection, which brings a desire to make a difference.

Making a difference in breast cancer can start with every woman. Lives can be saved by following the recommendations of the American Cancer Society regarding breast self-exams, regular check ups and mammograms. Since early detection is the best defense, the American Cancer Society recommends:

AGE 20-39
    Breast self-exam every month
    Exam by a health care professional every three years

AGE 40 AND OLDER
    Mammogram every year
    Monthly breast self-exam
    Exam by a health care professional every year

Mammograms can make a difference because you cannot feel breast cancer when it is just beginning, breast cancer can strike any woman, and the fact is that one in nine women will get the disease.

If your mother, sister or daughter had breast cancer, your chances of getting it are greater. However, four out of five women who get breast cancer do not have a history of it in their family.

A mammogram is nothing more than a breast x-ray that is safe and effective. It is the best way to find breast cancer early, when it is most treatable. A mammogram can find breast cancer that is too small for you, your doctor, or nurse to feel.

Check the Health Alliance Mammography page on this web site to discover where the Health Alliance Mobile Mammography Van will be throughout the month of October.

Wear a pink ribbon in October to remind everyone you contact that October is Breast Health Awareness month. It is estimated that 180,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 1997. Taking action is essential. That is why it is so important to reach out and MAKE A DIFFERENCE. 

If you’d like more information on cancer care, including information about cancer treatment, screening, prevention, supportive care and clinical trials, please contact one of our facilities.