Mercy Health— Lourdes Hospital Stands in Solidarity on World Cancer Day, February 4
PADUCAH, KY, Jan. 31 - As the world unites to recognize World Cancer Day on February 4, Mercy Health Lourdes Hospital reaffirms its commitment to providing exceptional oncology care and comprehensive support services to cancer patients and their families.
According to the American Cancer Society, over 30,000 Kentuckians will be diagnosed with some type of cancer in 2024, but there is hope. "We've made remarkable progress in diagnosing and treating cancer, introducing advanced screening tools like Low Dose CT Lung Screening, and innovative treatments such as immunotherapies” said, John Montville, Executive Director, Oncology Service Line at Mercy Health—Lourdes Hospital. “However, we still encounter challenges—ensuring everyone in our region gets their necessary cancer screenings and addressing the concerning trend of cancer cases occurring at increasingly younger ages nationwide."
William L. Skinner, MD, Oncology Medical Director at Mercy Health— Lourdes Hospital, emphasized, "At Mercy Health— Lourdes, we stand in solidarity with the global community on World Cancer Day, reaffirming our devotion to providing personalized, holistic care to those affected by cancer. Our focus on oncology extends beyond medical treatment to offer a full spectrum of support services, including financial literacy, access to Cold Cap therapy, nutrition and fitness classes, and essential mental and emotional assistance for our patients and their families."
The Mercy Health— Paducah Cancer Center, scheduled to open in the summer of 2024, represents a significant milestone in Mercy Health Kentucky's ongoing dedication to advancing oncology care in the community. This state-of-the-art facility will expand the range of advanced cancer support services available, reinforcing Mercy Health Lourdes Hospital's commitment to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care in Paducah and the surrounding region.
Dr. Skinner offers three ways Paducah community members can recognize World Cancer Day in their sphere of influence:
1. Sharing Educational Content: Paducah community members can easily support cancer care in their community by sharing educational content related to cancer prevention, early detection, and available support services on their social media platforms or within their social circles. This includes communicating to your friends and loved ones the importance of cancer screening as the best tool to catch cancer early when it is most treatable. Encourage all to get their cancer screenings according to national screening recommendations.
2. Participating in Fundraising Efforts: World Cancer Day is excellent for supporting cancer research, patient care, and awareness initiatives
3. Volunteering for Cancer Support Activities: Individuals can volunteer their time and skills at Paducah cancer care facilities like Lourdes Hospital and it’s many support groups and cancer volunteer opportunities, support organizations, or hospices. Volunteering opportunities may include providing companionship to cancer patients, assisting with administrative tasks, or participating in local events to raise awareness for cancer care. These simple actions can make a meaningful impact on those affected by cancer in the community.
“These simple actions lay the foundation for a compassionate community in our fight against cancer. By raising awareness, fundraising, and volunteering, we not only support those affected but also create an environment of support and togetherness,” explained Skinner.
As part of our dedication to the cause of World Cancer Day, Mercy Health— Lourdes Hospital encourages community members to join us in promoting awareness and understanding of cancer. By raising our collective voices, we want to support those affected by cancer while underlining our commitment to championing breakthroughs in cancer care and support services.
For more information about Mercy Health— Lourdes Hospital and its oncology services, please visit mercy.com.