Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
Accounting for an estimated 30 percent of new cancer cases in women each year, breast cancer has impacted more than 3.8 million women in the United States. Those who have not been diagnosed are considered at average risk, about 13 percent or 1 out of 8 women. However, family history, race, ethnicity, and genetics can increase your risk of breast cancer.
Women come in all colors, shapes, and sizes, but when it comes to breast cancer – we are united! The upcoming Purple Tea is an opportunity for all women to gather together to receive the most up-to-date information on the latest advancements in breast cancer prevention, screening, and treatment. A free community event led by renowned local breast health experts, women will learn more about their health and the disparities that affect their race and ethnicity in a supportive and inspiring environment.
The afternoon event will feature keynote speaker Dr. Alan Brown who has been recognized nationally for his community involvement and cancer research efforts. Currently serving as chairman of the Lee Health Regional Cancer Center Multidisciplinary Breast Clinic, Dr. Brown is a radiation oncologist whose contributions have been highlighted in multiple publications. Additionally, he’s been honored with several awards and grants, including the National Center on Minority Health & Health Disparities (NIMHD) Loan Repayment Program, which is awarded to clinicians and researchers who are making an effort to reduce health disparities and increase the participation of disadvantaged communities in clinical research activities.
Other speakers include Dr. Magali Van de Bergh, MD, a principal investigator with Florida Cancer Specialists who has led multiple clinical research studies with a focus on lymphomas, chronic leukemias, and lymphoproliferative disorders; Dr. Natalia Spinelli, a board-certified breast surgical oncologist who specializes in benign and malignant diseases of the breast and is trained in the latest surgical approaches in breast cancer care; and Debra Wilson, MSN, RN, OCN, who serves as the Vice President of Oncology Services at Lee Health.
Purple Tea attendees will also have an opportunity to hear from Honorary Chair Geraldine “Gerri” Ware, who earned a nursing degree from Florida A&M University before returning to Fort Myers, where she served as a hospital nurse, a public health nurse, and school nurse, as well as teaching Nursing at Collier County Schools for 15 years.
Knowledge is power, and cancer prevention begins with education and awareness. All women are invited to dress in their favorite purple and unite in the fight against breast cancer at the upcoming Purple Tea on February 23.
Purple Tea is a free event on Thursday, February 23. Held at the Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre in Fort Myers, tickets can be reserved by calling 239.839.6015 or visiting www.eventbrite.com/e/purple-tea-tickets-503552447927.
Cape Coral
909 Del Prado Blvd. S
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 217-8070
Bonita Springs
25243 Elementary Way
Bonita Springs, FL 34135
(239) 317-2772
Fort Myers
15681 New Hampshire Ct.
Fort Myers, FL 33908
(239) 437-1977
Port Charlotte
3080 Harbor Blvd.
Port Charlotte, FL 33952
(941) 883-2199
Naples
1775 Davis Blvd.
Naples, FL 34102
(239) 372-2838
