Decatur General offers a variety of cancer programs and support groups throughout the year. In 2001, Camp Bluebird, the only adult cancer camp in North Alabama, was host to more than 120 campers. This camp, sponsored by Decatur General, Decatur General Foundation and the Telephone Pioneers of America, offers a unique experience for adult cancer patients. The three-day, two-night camp provides a time for listening and learning, sharing and caring, discussing lifestyle adjustments in coping with cancer and learning how to give and receive family support. Campers also learn about medical concerns and take part in arts and crafts. The camp takes place twice a year.

Focusing on treatment and support for specific cancers, Decatur General also offers support groups and educational programs for breast and prostate cancer patients. Bosom Buddies, STRETCH and Reach to Recovery each provide support and exercise for breast cancer patients. The Man to Man Education and Support Program provides information for prostate cancer patients. Held quarterly, meetings feature medical topics and quality-of-life issues. Decatur General sponsors several teams in the American Cancer Society's Relay For Life, the major cancer fund-raising project in Morgan County and we offer the Society's Look Good, Feel Better, a program offering women an opportunity to learn about skin and hair care while undergoing cancer treatment.

We also offer screenings to encourage men and women in the community to take responsibility for their health. Nearly 250 women received reduced-price screening mammograms in October 2001, during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Among those screened, three follow-up visits were subsequently scheduled, two biopsies ordered and one positive case of breast cancer was determined. One hundred thirteen men received a Prostate Specific Antigen test and digital rectal exam at Decatur GeneralÕs annual community prostate screening in August 2001. Of the 113 men screened, 102 PSA cases were normal and 11 were abnormal; 56 DRE cases were normal and 13 were abnormal: 1 was diagnosed with abnormal PSA and DRE results; and 38 were diagnosed with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, an enlargement of the prostate that occurs as men age, but does not cause prostate cancer. More than 50 physicians and employees volunteered their time to make these support groups and screenings a reality.

In October we held our annual Celebration of Life Picnic. More than 200 survivors, their families and employees enjoyed food, fun and entertainment. This event is an opportunity for all who have experienced cancer to CELEBRATE LIFE.

M.M.Tweedy
Director Health Promotion