Posted 09/10/2006

Arnold School shares in effort to raise more than $400,000 for breast cancer education and research

A team from the Arnold School of Public Health is celebrating its role in helping raise more than $400,000 in support of the Palmetto Health South Carolina Comprehensive Breast Center.

More than 10,000 walkers gathered at Finlay Park for the First Ladies' Walk for Life on Oct. 7. Others purchased Pink Ribbon cards to signal their support of the Center’s research and education activities. 

Last year’s walk raised $349,000. 

”I am thrilled with the financial contributions of ASPH students, faculty and staff,” said Lauren Vincent, team captain for the Arnold School contingent of 32 students, staff and faculty members. 

"We also had several people who gave additional money, raising our school fundraising total to approximately $650," she said. “The support we have given towards the First Ladies' Walk for Life reflects our commitment to our own personal breast cancer survivors and the community as a whole." 

The American Cancer Society estimates there will be 3,170 cases of female breast cancer in South Carolina this year.  Deaths from female breast cancer are expected to number 610 for the same period. 

The society says that the five year survival rate for breast cancer is:

• 26 percent if it has spread widely 

• 81 percent if it has spread slightly 

• 98 percent if caught before it has spread

For more information: 

• South Carolina Comprehensive Breast Center