News from the Somerset County Board of Chosen Freeholders

Public Information Contacts: Linda Van Zandt / Joanne Vuoso / Lisa Krueger

908.231.7020 publicinfo@co.somerset.nj.us

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October 22, 2009

Breast Cancer Awareness Month Kickoff

SOMERVILLE - Freeholder Patricia L. Walsh recently joined Women’s Health & Counseling Center (WHCC) and the Somerset County Cancer Coalition (SCCC) in kicking off the sixth annual Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Freeholder Walsh presented a proclamation recognizing October as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and offered brief remarks, along with WHCC Executive Director Frances Palm and Assemblywoman Denise Coyle.

Also, Aita Salasoo of Bridgewater, who is a breast cancer survivor, and her husband, Tim Feustal, discussed their personal experience with cancer. Ms. Salasoo talked about being a survivor and Mr. Feustal gave his perspective as a caregiver and loved one. They talked about the support they received from organizations affiliated with the Somerset County Cancer Coalition.

“With so many advances in early detection and individualized-treatment options, there are more and more survivors each year,” said Freeholder Patricia Walsh. It’s important that we take charge of our health by choosing healthy lifestyles, conducting monthly self-exams, going for clinical breast exams and an annual mammogram after age 40, and setting an example for our family and friends.”

Also attending the press conference were Freeholder Deputy Director Jack M. Ciattarelli and Freeholder Peter S. Palmer.

Participants who attended last year’s kickoff were invited to bring their floppy sun-safe hats with them. Other participants were given a new hat. Hats, boutonnieres and special gifts were distributed. Also, various “Shades-of-Pink” ribbons were distributed to personalize the hats. The pink ribbon is an international symbol of breast cancer awareness.

Women's Health & Counseling Center is a member of the Somerset County Cancer Coalition, which was established in 2005 to address the cancer burden through cancer advocacy education and outreach efforts. 

Several other members of the SCCC that advocate and assist people with breast cancer were available to talk with and provide literature, including The Wellness Community, American Cancer Society and Somerset Medical Center.

The Somerset County Cancer Coalition is made possible by a grant from the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services’ Office of Cancer Control and Prevention. For more information on the Coalition and its members, to become a member and to learn about available cancer-screening locations, dates, times and eligibility, contact Cancer Coalition Coordinator Lucille Y-Talbot at 908-203-6077 or visit www.co.somerset.nj.us/health and select the Cancer Coalition from the Health Promotion and Wellness Activities menu.

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