Schneck plans awareness event for colon cancer

Schneck Medical Center in Seymour will be holding an event next week to recognize those fighting colorectal cancer.

According to the hospital, the Sparks of Strength ceremony will be Friday, March 7th in the main lobby. The event will include reflection and remembrance of those who have battled the illness. Participants will hold a blue tea light symbolizing awareness of the disease and will be invited to pass the candle to someone to encourage screening colonoscopies.

Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. But experts say that 90% of cases are curable if detected early. They say you should talk to your doctor about scheduling a colonoscopy if you are 45 or older or have risk factors such as smoking, obesity, physical inactivity, or heavy alcohol use.

Sparks of Strength will start at 10 a.m. on March 7th.