While educating people on breast cancer, they also talked about the importance of cancer research and the assistance that the Avon Foundation is providing to cancer research.

“We want to make people aware of the dangers of breast cancer and the work Avon is doing to help find cures to this disease,” Steele said. “We also want to make sure we stress early detection, because it’s so important.”

From 1992 through 2007, the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade has raised and awarded more than $525 million in 50 countries worldwide for awareness and education; screening and diagnosis; access to treatment; support services; and scientific research.

Whited, president of the American Legion’s Ladies Auxiliary Unit 11 of Laurel which presented a check in support of the event, said “it’s important to inform people about breast cancer; and hopefully early detection can save someone’s life.”

Also as a part of the day, South Central Regional Medical Center provided free health screenings as well as educational information about the disease.

“It’s making people aware of fitness screenings,” said Betty Henderson, a volunteer with South Central Regional Medical Center. “Health screenings are very helpful to the community and also help the patients discover if there is a problem.”

Reida Reddoch another SCRMC volunteer, said the special day also “makes people aware of the fact that they should know more about their health.”

Reddoch, who is also a breast cancer survivor, said “early detection is important” and encouraged everyone attending the special event to get checked.

Those attending the event also participated in a health fair that offered screenings including blood pressure and glucose.

Karen Vanderslice, community education coordinator at SCRMC, said it’s important to remind people to take care of their health.

“Researchers have made great strides in this field. So, we are here to just help people take care of their health,” Vanderslice said. “We offer a lot of health information because we are all about the community’s health.”

Supporters were also able to purchase a ribeye steak sandwich from The Smokehouse, along with chips, dessert, and bottled water or soft drink.

McCardle said the Man to Man Prostate Cancer Support Group assisted the effort by delivering plates to requested areas.

Kay Sumrall, a member of the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary, praised the local efforts and the group’s contribution to the community.

Linda Gatzman, a volunteer for the American Cancer Society, said she supported the event “for our future generations. We are working for that day when there will be no cancer.”