September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month  1 in 9 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer.


 Men in their 40s or 50s should begin prostate screen- ing, depending on risk factors. Men with a family history of certain cancers should start screening in their early 40s.


 Routine screenings include PSA test, which measures prostate-specific antigen in the blood, and the DRE, or digital rectal exam.


More information can be found at www.pcf.org October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month


 1 in 8 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetimes.  Perform monthly breast exams to identify any changes.


 Women 40 and over should have annual mammograms. Women younger than 40 with risk factors should talk to their doctor about when to get mammograms.


More information can be found at www.nationalbreast- cancer.org and ww5.komen.org


Community support Besides being a source of information, the Peitz Cancer


Support House is a place that offers understanding and sup- port.


The house offers a room with wigs, hats, turbans and


scarves, and a remodeled fitting room where survivors can try on bras, prosthesis and swimsuits. It also offers supplies for other types of cancers. “Everything is free at the Peitz Cancer Support House,” Me-


lissa says. “That’s why we have fundraising events and accept donations.” The support house also is a hub for many other activities. Every Wednesday afternoon, Threads of Hope meets to


sew and craft items for survivors. The group is comprised of about half survivors and half supporters. “It’s a way to talk to someone else who is going through


what you’re going through,” says Pat Zander of Mountain Home, who is a lung cancer survivor. She’s crocheting bags, as laughter and easy chatter fill the sunlit room. The group makes soft “hug wraps” so survivors can stay


warm during treatments, and a group member makes seatbelt covers so survivors with ports do not experience irritation from their seatbelts. Other programs at Peitz Cancer Support House include a


twice-a-month Facing Cancer luncheon, a caregiver’s lun- cheon, group discussions on prostate cancer, breast cancer, and eating tips and healthy snacks. The support house also offers programs with guest speakers, and the nicotine cessa- tion program meets there. A new Thriving on Strengths group allows people who have


LIVING WELL  SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019  25


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