Local residents needed for historic cancer research effort

from the Middlesex Hospital's newsletter:

Middlesex Hospital and the American Cancer Society are joining together to provide an unprecedented opportunity for local residents to participate in a historic study that has the potential to change the face of cancer for future generations. Men and women between the ages of 30 and 65 who have never been diagnosed with cancer are needed to participate in the American Cancer Society's Cancer Prevention Study-3 (CPS-3).

CPS-3 will help researchers better understand the lifestyle, environmental, and genetic factors that cause or prevent cancer.

Cancer Survivors Day on Sunday, May 16, 2010

submitted by Peg Arico:

The Middlesex Hospital Cancer Center will host its annual Survivors Day on Sunday, May 16, 2010, from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

This gathering celebrates life and honors the courage of all cancer survivors. It is estimated that there are currently more than 12 million cancer survivors in the United States. A cancer survivor is anyone living with a history of cancer — that includes newly diagnosed survivors as well as long-term survivors. Family members (especially children), friends and anyone else who plays an important role in a cancer survivor’s life are encouraged to attend.

The day will feature special guest, comedienne and cancer survivor, Brenda Elsagher. A colorectal cancer survivor diagnosed at the age of 39, Elsagher relied on her humor, faith, friends and family, along with good medical care, to get through it. Elsagher has won the title of Twin Cities Funniest Person, been named the Newsmaker of the Year for the Women’s Press, and has received the Golden “Mic” Award from the American Cancer Society and the Advocacy to Action Award.

Music will be provided by The Kerry Boys, two dynamic and popular Connecticut Irish balladeers who have been performing together for over 20 years. Their humorous, high-energy show will have listeners clapping and singing along in no time, engaging the audience from start to finish with their wide collection of traditional and original songs.

In addition, Hope Douglas, from “Wind Over Wings,” will conduct a special program, entitled “Soaring with Hope,” using several wild birds rescued by her organization. As a special treat, there will be tethered hot air balloon rides, weather permitting. Integrative medicine practitioners will offer massage, Reiki and reflexology to guests.

The formal ceremony will feature remarks by Middlesex Hospital oncologist Susanna Hong, M.D. A cancer survivor will also share his personal story. Special recognition will be given to Andrea Malon, M.D., medical director of the Middlesex Hospital Cancer Center.

All cancer survivors who attend will be given a special gift. There will also be food, door prizes and fun activities for children, including a bouncy house, face painting and the Magic of Christopher.

Attendees are welcome to bring a non-perishable, canned food item to the event, which will be collected and donated to the local food pantry.

The event is free, but registration is requested by calling (860) 358-2062.

Lemonade Stand Raises Money For Cancer Research

From Jean and Rob Newman

Last year Kaiti , our daughter, became involved with Alex's Lemonade Stand.

Committed to finding a cure for childhood cancer, Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation was founded by a 4 year old cancer patient named Alexandra "Alex" Scott. Despite the fact that Alex fought her own deadly cancer for 7 years, she started a fundraising movement in her front yard by selling lemonade for childhood cancer research. She died in 2004 at the age of 8, knowing that she had raised almost a million dollars to find a cure for other children with cancer. The result -- Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation has raised over $25 million for childhood cancer research across the country.

In 2008, Kaiti raised approximately $470 towards the cause ~ not bad for a then 6 year old!. This year, she has already raised $125.00 (after only 2 hours of work!) and this Saturday we will be at the Berlin Music Fest with our stand. From June 12-14, 2009 are "Lemonade Days". During Lemonade Days, dedicated volunteers host thousands of Alex's Lemonade Stands across the country during the same June weekend that Alex first held her original stands. We are committed to raise money for this cause and help our daughter reach (or hopefully surpass) her goal of $1,000.00. If you would like to make a donation, you can do so through the attached link below. There are pictures from our stands from last year and the stand we held this May. Thank you in advance.