The Scully Welsh Cancer Center radiated with rosy hope during the annual Cleveland Clinic Get Your Pink On event in recognition of October as Breast Cancer Awareness month.
The evening celebrated the resilience of all those survivors, patients and caregivers who have confronted breast cancer. Attendees were treated to a buffet catered by Sweet Desires Dessert Lounge, shopped for breast cancer-related merchandise from local vendors, took chances at raffle items, and nibbled on wispy pink cotton candy.
Colleen Brennan introduced members of the Cancer Dancers and shared a little about each of their personal journeys of survival.
She noted that the dancers celebrate life through inspirational music and dance, while instilling hope in audiences, caregivers and cancer patients.
“It’s actually our form of therapy. When we’re in pain, when we’re defeated, we dance it out,” said Brennan, before the group performed to “The Greatest Showman.”
Their dance, she said, “exemplifies survival. It’s upbeat, it’s strong and it’s defiant, just like everyone in this audience.”
A furry canine crew was also on hand, dressed to impress as they paraded through in outfits ranging from pink tutus to mini cowboy hats.
Sheri Anderson-Searle, owner of the therapy dog Solaris, explained that interacting with therapy dogs releases oxytocin, often called the “hug hormone,” which can decrease stress and boost happiness.
A panel of Cleveland Clinic physicians provided information on the various detection, surgery and treatment options available in Vero Beach.
Dr. Nataly Torrejon, new to the staff in Vero Beach, is a medical oncologist with a special interest in breast cancer. She stressed the importance of regular screening in early detection.
“Early detection can save lives,” said Torrejon. She noted that the five-year survival rate for localized breast cancer is 99 percent but drops to around 30 percent if the cancer is given time to spread to other organs.
Dr. Daniel Sutphin, a plastic and reconstructive surgeon, discussed breast reconstruction options, explaining that a 1998 federal law ensures that all private insurers must cover breast reconstruction procedures following a cancer diagnosis.
Dr. Ellis Ziel, a radiation oncologist, highlighted the state-of-the-art technology available at Scully Welsh, including two TrueBeam linear accelerators, which can quickly and accurately target tumors. He said that improvements in technology have increased precision, have reduced cardiovascular side effects and have lessened the number of radiation treatments.
Dr. Simon Vinarsky, a hematologist and medical oncologist, spoke about the advancements in systemic breast cancer treatment.
“The most important thing is to realize you’re not alone on this journey. We have an excellent team who’s ready to walk you step by step, explain what your options are, and provide you with cutting-edge treatment and proper surveillance,” said Vinarsky, referencing the developments that have been made over the past 20 years, including targeted therapies, Circulating DNA (ctDNA), and the benefits of Integrative Care.
Vinarsky urged attendees not to lose hope and to stay proactive about their health, emphasizing the importance of regular mammograms, which can make a significant difference in the fight against breast cancer.
Photos by Joshua Kodis
