SUMMIT COUNTY, OHIO—Summit County Executive Shapiro and County Council are recognizing survivors, caregivers, family members, and those lost to breast cancer. In 2023, an estimated 297,790 women and 2,800 men will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer and 43,700 women and 530 men will die of breast cancer in the United States. This includes thousands of Summit County residents who have faced a diagnosis.
“In Summit County, we are proud to stand up and wear pink for our family members, friends, and neighbors who have faced breast cancer,” said Executive Shapiro, “Your struggles are inspiring, and your fight keeps us going as we work to end this terrible disease once and for all.”
While breast cancer remains a serious illness, there is hope. There are millions of survivors and thousands of hospitals, universities, and foundations across the nation dedicated to the prevention, treatment, and cure of breast cancer. Thanks to the determination and bravery of countless women and healthcare professionals, Breast Cancer Awareness Month continues to elevate the cause and uplift all those enduring the struggle.
Residents are encouraged to wear pink on October 20, 2023 and to consider supporting a foundation of their choosing, such as the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Additionally, county employees will be offered free mammograms through the “Mammovan Service,” on several dates in October. Residents in need of breast or cervical cancer screenings should visit or call Summit County Public Health (SCPH) at 330-923-4891.
Executive Shapiro and Council also recognized October as Safe Sleep and SIDS Awareness Month. According to the CDC, 3,200 children died due to a Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy (SUDI) or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Research has shown safe sleep practices, including always placing babies on their backs, removing all toys, pillows, blankets, and bumpers, prioritizing sleep in a crib, and using a pacifier at nap or bedtime, can all help prevent SIDS and other health risks.
Educating parents and families in Summit County is crucial to preventing SIDS and other health risks. SCPH and the City of Akron, in partnership with several community organizations, formed Full Term First Birthday (FTFB) to reduce infant mortality. The group advocates for policies, educates the community, and informs the Greater Akron residents about programs that promote healthy, full-term pregnancies and ensure every child celebrates a first birthday.
FTFB is also recognizing October 9-15 as Baby Loss Awareness Week culminating in the Wave of Light Ceremony – a special opportunity to mark the lives of babies lost in pregnancy or at or soon after birth.
We extend our sincere condolences to the families who have experienced this unimaginable loss and invite you to join us to honor the lives of those gone too soon. Residents interested in joining the event can register here.
