• October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

On October 15 from 5-7 p.m. the Pearlman Cancer Center will have a free clinical breast screening for women of all ages. Those who qualify for the program may be eligible to receive a free mammogram.

Paint the town Pink is a slogan to make people more aware of breast cancer. Many stores and businesses are offering percentages of sales to fight this cancer. SGMC will have a Chevy Traverse, donated by Prince Automotive, wrapped in hot pink so that it can be signed in honor or memory of ones touched by breast cancer.

Cancer is no respecter of persons and it can sneak up on you like a thief in the night. That is why I urge you to get checkups of all kinds. Cancer can grow so rapidly that early diagnosis pays.

As a three-time cancer survivor and having lost three siblings plus other relatives to cancer, fighting cancer is so important. In August, I lost my sister to cancer. It was not detected early on, and spread to her liver and lungs. I cannot urge you strongly enough to go for checkups. We are blessed to have a wonderful facility, Pearlman Cancer Center here in Valdosta.

The American Cancer Society has a new cookbook out “What To Eat During Cancer Treatment: 100 Family and Friends’ Recipes to Help You Cope.” Cost is $19.95. Join in the fight against cancer. Give to cancer research at every opportunity. It takes money for research. Early detection is the key.

Nina King

Valdosta

• What a great senior center Valdosta has

We bring greetings from Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. We had the privilege of visiting Valdosta and area this past week. Beautiful scenery, beautiful people.

We especially wanted to comment on the seniors center of Valdosta. What an absolute amazing facility. The seniors of Valdosta are so blessed to have this center where one can learn new things, socialize and make great friends. We were able to play Spades with some terrific folks — lots of laughter and great camaraderie. Our superb hosts have given us a glimpse into the possible fun a senior can have in your community. We hope that any seniors who have not checked out this incredible facility do so very soon.

Keep up the great work Valdosta.