Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Colon Cancer - deadly, but preventable!

Most physicians will recommend you begin getting regular colonoscopy's when you're around 50 years old. But don't let that fool you into believing that you are not at risk for colon cancer before that age... just ask some of the people who have posed for the annual Colondar put together by The Colon Club. They all faced a colon cancer diagnosis before they turned 50.


Know the symptoms, don't be afraid to discuss your concerns with your doctor if you recognize them in your own body, and get screened!


Signs and symptoms of colon cancer include:
  • A change in your bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation or a change in the consistency of your stool for more than a couple of weeks;

  • Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool;

  • Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas or pain;

  • Abdominal pain with a bowel movement;

  • A feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely;

  • Weakness or fatigue;

  • Unexplained weight loss.

Join us on May 2nd to help raise awareness of the need for early detection of this nasty disease. We'll be running and walking, getting free massages from Blue Cliff College, eating snacks from Frito Lay and Little Debbie, and listening to some great music provided by Clear Channel. All events will be held at or around the old Tiger Stadium site in Bentonville, and more information can be found at the event website.


Monday, April 27, 2009

5th Annual Heather Ridley-Fleeman Battle for HOPE

This week may have a prediction of rain, but we are gearing up for a break in the weather on Saturday so that we can share a morning of cancer education, activity, and awards with you in Bentonville!

What: Heather Ridley Fleeman Battle for HOPE

When: Saturday May 2 - 8:00 a.m.

Where: old Tiger Stadium site in Bentonville (corner of Bella Vista Dr. and Tiger Blvd.)

Why: Raising awareness for the need for early detection and prevention of colon cancer - the 2nd deadliest cancer in the United States.

The Battle for HOPE is so packed with activities for everyone in the family it will be impossible not to have a great time. The main events are a 10k and 5k run, but we also have a 5k walk, a 1-mile Family Fun Walk, several Kids' Races, and a 50-yard dash presented by Fresh Express.

In addition to the runs and walks, there will be massage therapists on site to soothe your muscles, snacks to replenish your body, and some bouncy, air-filled things for kids to jump around on.

You can register online at http://www.heathersraceforhope.com/ or in person at Fleet Feet Sports in Fayetteville through Thursday - then we'll be at the old Tiger Stadium site in Bentonville at 6:30 a.m. on the morning of the race to register all you last-minute folks.

This event benefits HOPE, Inc. to provide financial and emotional assistance and access to clinical trials to cancer patients living or being treated in NW Arkansas. All money raised stays here in our communities, and helps our friends, neighbors and loved ones who are battling cancer. For more info on HOPE, check out our website! http://www.hopenwa.org/