JANUARY 2022
LINK TO HOPE NEWSLETTER
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Kentucky CancerLink is a non-profit organization whose mission is to reduce and/or eliminate barriers to screening, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer. We work alongside Kentuckians in need of life-saving cancer screenings or in need of support while on a cancer journey. We strive to be a link to hope...
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Greetings from the Executive Director: |
"You don't need to see the whole staircase, just take the first step." - Martin Luther King
Happy New Year!
I just love that quote. Taking the first step and the idea of the new year go hand in hand, doesn't it? It signifies new direction or momentum toward something you believe in, despite concern or self-doubt. There have been many times I've taken the first step toward something only to go 3 steps back.... Learning as I go that the first step is the only way that change can ever happen.
For Kentucky CancerLink, we are taking steps toward growing our team. In this issue, you'll meet Melanie Hunter, our new Director of Community Outreach. We are also taking first steps to get back into events! We have a few fun ones planned in the first few months of the year.
We will continue on our path of being a link to hope to Kentuckians in need of support during a cancer diagnosis or working with partners to provide no-cost cancer screenings that can save lives. There will be more opportunities this year to take steps in a direction without seeing the whole staircase....but that's what makes it all fun.
We appreciate your support.
Cheers,
Melissa
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Our team is growing!
We are excited to announce that Melanie Hunter has joined KCL as our new Director of Community Outreach.
Melanie will be working closely with our partners, throughout the commonwealth to help advance the mission of KCL, increase funding, and promote the impactful work that is being done to eliminate barriers to care for all Kentuckians.
Melanie’s prior experience involves working for the American Cancer Society for nearly 15 years serving as the only American Cancer Society lay patient navigator in the Kentucky for the last 8 years of her service with the organization. Most recently, Melanie worked as the community outreach coordinator at Markey Cancer Center with a focus on school-based and community based programs designed to empower and educate Kentuckians on the importance of cancer screening guidelines, early detection, and overall general health & wellness.
Melanie holds a bachelor’s degree from Western Kentucky University and received patient navigator certification through the Harold P. Freeman Patient Navigation Institute. Melanie and her husband, Chip, reside in Lexington with their 3 rescue dogs, Willie, Waylon, and Molly and 1 cat, Randy.
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"Thank you, Karmell! I love the wig that you sent me. It matches my hair style and color perfect. I am so thankful for your help. God Bless you all for your help.". |
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Ask Karmell - Skin Care Tips |
Karmell, a KCL Certified Patient Navigator is also a licensed esthetician.
**Cannot diagnose skin conditions or possible skin cancer. Please see your medical provider for any concerning issues.
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January is typically a time when many like to start fresh and set goals to improve their general health & wellness and weight loss is usually at the top of that list. |
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According to the American Cancer Society, “for most Americans who do not use tobacco, the most important cancer risk factors that can be changed are body weight, diet, and physical activity. Along with avoiding tobacco products, staying at a healthy weight, staying active throughout life, and eating a healthy diet may greatly reduce a person’s lifetime risk of developing or dying from cancer. The same behaviors are also linked with a lower risk of developing heart disease and diabetes.”
The general recommendation is to move our bodies at least 30 minutes every day. For maximum results, any workout program should, ideally, involve cardio and strength training. Lifting weights increases lean muscle mass which allows your body to burn calories at rest.
Of course, before starting any fitness program, it’s always important to check with your care provider to ensure the program you choose poses little risk.
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Paleo & Vegan Almond Butter Blondies
If you love chocolate chip cookies with a gooey, under-baked middle, this recipe is for you! It tastes like a deep dish cookie.
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On January 27, we are hosting a charity spin class ride at CycleYou for our patient services fuel cards fund. 100% of the proceeds will go directly to helping patients get to and from their life-saving treatment appointments and/or cancer screening appointments.
We’ll be asking for a minimum $10 donation and beginners are welcome! This will be a fun way to give back to the community and, at the same time, bettering your health.
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Until there is a cure for cancer Kentuckians need hope today. Link 2 Hope is a monthly podcast featuring experts discussing ways to remove barriers for Kentuckians in need of screening, diagnosis and treatment for cancer.
You can also listen to Link 2 Hope on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts. Subscribe to be informed when new episodes are added!
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Each month on WKYT, a Link to Hope story is featured with Amber Philpott.
Our most recent story is about Shannon's Angels and how they bless cancer patients during the holiday season.
THANK YOU to WKYT for their partnership!
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Do you need help getting a cervical screening, but are uninsured or underinsured? Call Kentucky CancerLink and we'll get you connected with CHI Saint Joseph Health's Yes, Cerv! program!
859-309-1700
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Join us in being a LINK TO HOPE! |
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KENTUCKY CANCERLINK
2425 Regency Road, Suite B
Lexington, KY 40503
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Phone: 859-309-1700
Toll-Free: 877-597-4655
Fax: 859-368-8418
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