Bert Fish Medical Center "shines a (pink) Light" on breast cancer awareness

Photo by Mark Steighner

Bert Fish Medical Center is "shining a light" on breast cancer with the use of pink exterior lighting throughout the month of October. The initiative is part of a month-long community outreach effort to raise awareness about the importance of early detection through mammograms.

NEW SMYRNA BEACH -- Bert Fish Medical Center is "shining a light" on breast cancer in an effort to raise awareness about the importance of early detection.

The hospital turned on its pink exterior on Monday, emitting a pink glow for all to see.

The lights will remain pink for the entire month of October to remind women to be proactive in their own health, as well as talk to their loved ones about the importance of annual mammograms. Aside from non-melanoma skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women, accounting for nearly 1 in 4 cancers diagnosed in women living in the U.S.

The American Cancer Society estimates that approximately 200,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer and nearly 40,000 will die from breast cancer in 2010. Bert Fish Medical Center  is leading the way to encourage the community to learn more about breast cancer prevention and to get mammograms.

The hospital is hosting a Pink Party from 4 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 6 in the Schildecker Lobby featuring vendor and education booths. Dr. Avrohm Faber, general surgeon, will offer a lecture on breast diagnosis.

Attendees can also learn how to take advantage of a specially-discounted $99 mammogram screening or a $149 mammogram screening with bone densitometry (DEX) through Friday, Oct. 29.

A doctor's order is required for the mammogram.

The special price includes both the mammogram and radiologist report. The mammogram is digital and features "soft touch" technology for a more comfortable experience.

The Pink Party is one element of BFMC's unique campaign called "The Pink Army." The incentive-based engagement program rewards "soldiers" who help educate the Southeast Volusia community about the life-saving benefits of annual mammograms and vital cancer treatment resources available at the hospital.

The more people a "soldier" influences, the higher she or he will rise in the ranks. Participants also receive exciting prizes as they attend breast cancer education events.

Pink Army participants can also host their own Pink Parties to encourage breast cancer awareness. The Pink Army campaign ends Saturday, Oct. 23 after BFMC's team, "Pink Angel Fish", participates in the ACS' Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk.

For information on the Pink Army initiative, please go online: