Mary Bird Perkins – Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Center’s Fest for Life will be held April 18 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Fourth St. between North St. and Spanish Town Rd. In addition to health screenings, the event will include music, free t-shirts (while supplies last), fun activities for children and adults, and the chance to win prizes.
Johnnay Benjamin, director of early detection and education for the Cancer Center, said more than 20 people have been diagnosed with cancer through Fest for Life; and other diseases have been detected as well.
“Fest for Life is focused on bringing the community together and educating people on cancer prevention and screening,” said Benjamin. “More and more we are learning that people don’t get the recommended cancer screenings due to a lack of time, awareness, or other barriers, which can result in cancers going undetected. The relaxed, family-friendly environment of Fest for Life takes some fear out of cancer education and early detection.”
Since 2008, more than 5,700 individuals have been screened for cancer at Fest for Life, a free health event that includes cancer screenings, food, children’s activities, and entertainment for the entire family. Free cancer screenings include colorectal, breast, prostate, skin, and oral cavity. All screenings are available to those who have not been screened for cancer in the past 12 months. For more information, call (225) 215-1234 or (888) 616-4687.
In addition to cancer, mortality rates continue to soar for conditions such as high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes. As a result, blood pressure and glucose checks, and other community health education and resources, will be offered.
LSU Women’s Basketball Head Coach Nikki Fargas will be this year’s Fest for Life honorary chair. Members of the women’s basketball team will be in attendance visiting with attendees, signing autographs, and interacting in the children’s area.
Prior to Fest for Life beginning, the community is encouraged to bring their yoga mats and Zen as Yogalates 2 South hosts the Cancer Center’s annual Geaux Yoga event starting at 9 a.m. at the State Capitol Formal Garden Lawn on Fourth Street and Spanish Town Road. Participants will enjoy a free Yogalates 2 South class, along with a picturesque view of the State Capitol, tasty bites, and drinks provided by Mockler Beverage Company. Visit marybirdlake.org/yoga to learn more.
Fest for Life’s presenting sponsor is Karnival Krewe de Louisiane, and Geaux Yoga’s presenting sponsor is Republic Finance.
For additional information about Fest for Life and other upcoming screenings, visit marybirdlake.org/festforlife.