Tour promotes breast health

Penticton Western News

Penticton Mayor Jake Kimberley officially opened the Telus Tour for the Cure exhibit at Cherry Lane shopping centre on Wednesday. The tour is travelling through B.C. to educate women about the importance of breast health.

It may not be a rock band but for Penticton women, it may very well be the most important tour to arrive this year.

The Telus Tour for the Cure set up shop in Cherry Lane shopping centre on Wednesday to educate women on the importance of breast health.

"It's wonderful because it's such an education for people," said Beverley Rice, a Penticton resident and survivor of breast cancer. "This really can get through to a lot of people."

Mayor Jake Kimberley, who attended the awareness ceremony that officially opened the display, commended the team involved with the tour for their commitment to an important cause.

The tour, visiting 24 communities throughout B.C. between May and November, includes displays with information regarding prevention, detection and treatment of breast cancer as well as the importance of regular mammograms in women over 40.

"Mammograms are the best defense we have against it," said Rice. "Early detection is the key to survival."

"The women who get mammograms, good for you, keep it up," said Lori Golemiec form the Health Sciences Association. "Don't forget to tell friends they need it too."

Every woman in B.C. that is 40-years or older is eligible for a free annual mammogram.

The screening Mammography Program of B.C. will be in Penticton between Sept. 8-20 with the mobile van service.

For women that are under the age of 40, an exam will be given with a referral from a doctor.

Appointments can be made by calling 1-800-663-9203.