Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center has received a $15,000 grant from Sisters Network® Inc. Karen E. Jackson Breast Cancer Assistance Program (BCAP) to expand access to mammogram services for uninsured women across our region. This funding will be used to support Mary Bird Perkins’ Prevention on the Go (POGO) program and will extend services to women across 31 parishes in Louisiana and four counties in Southwest Mississippi.
Sisters Network® Inc., a leading national African American breast cancer survivorship organization, is committed to increasing local and national attention to the devastating impact that breast cancer has in the African American community.
“As we join forces with Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center, we are embarking on a transformative partnership that will amplify our efforts in early detection and intervention for breast cancer patients,” said Caleen Allen, vice president, Sisters Network Inc. “Together, we are committed to ensuring that every woman has access to the care and support she needs to fight this disease. This collaboration signifies a new horizon in our mission to save lives and empower communities through comprehensive screening and education services."
Mary Bird Perkins’ nationally-recognized Prevention on the Go (POGO) program is designed to provide education and early detection services in locations where people live, work, worship, shop, and play – all at no cost to residents. With a fleet of mobile medical clinics, the Cancer Center travels throughout Louisiana and Southwest Mississippi to serve thousands of participants each year.
Since its launch in 2002, POGO has provided more than 113,000 screenings resulting in nearly 860 cancers detected. Last year alone, Mary Bird Perkins provided 6,198 preventive screenings to residents across the region.
“Through the support of organizations like Sisters Network® Inc., the Cancer Center’s Prevention on the Go team is able to reach more women who may otherwise not be able to receive critical early detection resources and screening services,” said Renea Duffin, vice president, cancer support and outreach, Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center. “We are beyond thankful to receive this funding once again and know the immediate impact it will have in communities that face barriers to care.”