Wear teal with zeal

NEWS RELEASE
ZONTA CLUB OF SAULT STE MARIE
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Ovarian cancer is the most fatal women’s cancer; yet it is often overlooked and under-diagnosed. Symptoms are vague, so most women are diagnosed in late stages when 70 per cent will not survive 5 years.

Approximately 1 in 4 Canadian women still believe that a Pap test screens for ovarian cancer; it does not. A Pap test screens for cervical cancer.

“The Zonta Club of Sault Ste. Marie Area has set a goal to raise awareness of ovarian cancer in our community. Everyone knows what pink ribbons are for. We want to ensure that people in our community recognize what the teal ribbons represent but also become more aware of possible signs of potential ovarian cancer and advocate for themselves with their family physicians,” states Heather Edwards, President of the Zonta Club of Sault Ste. Marie Area. “We will start off Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month by posting signs and tying teal ribbons on Queen Street from Pilgrim to Dennis Street.”

Throughout September there will be displays and information opportunities throughout the community, including the Group Health Centre, health clubs, spas and various workplaces.

National Wear Teal Day is on Friday, Sept. 7 and people are encouraged to wear teal, take a photo and share it with your friends and family on social media. The culmination of activities will be the Zonta fundraiser, Purses, Pies and Pinot, on Thursday, Sept. 27 at the Marconi Hall where a portion of the proceeds will go to Ovarian Cancer Canada, the only national charity dedicated to overcoming the most fatal women’s cancer.

The Zonta Club also offers free one-hour presentations called Knowledge is Power to local organizations and clubs which want to educate their members about the possible signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer. Organizations interested in accessing this can email their request to [email protected]

About Zonta

Zonta is a global service organization of members working together to advance the status of women worldwide through service and advocacy. The Zonta Club of Sault Ste. Marie Area is currently celebrating 40 years of service in the community.

The club supports a number of local service projects including scholarships at local high schools as well as Sault College and Algoma University, Breton House, Women in Crisis, Breast Cancer Comfort pillows, Days for Girls hygiene kits, literacy and a Speaker event.

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