Columbia, S.C. – Join the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) as we celebrate and remember those who’ve faced breast and cervical cancer at the annual Ann Riley Pink Tea on Thursday, October 8 at 10 a.m.
ACS CAN is honored to have breast cancer survivor and advocate Meg Kinnard as event emcee this year. Kinnard lives in Columbia and covers national politics for the Associated Press.
Speakers will also include Dr. Brannon Traxler of the S.C. Department of Public Health and South Carolina state Reps. Brandon Newton and Tiffany Spann-Wilder. Spann-Wilder is in active treatment for breast cancer and postponed a treatment session to speak. Interviews will be available before and after the event.
The annual event, named for former First Lady Ann Riley, who died from breast cancer in 2008, seeks to raise awareness and education about cancer care in South Carolina. Ann Riley was one of the first public figures in the state to speak about her breast cancer and encourage women to get screened. We will discuss key challenges to accessing care and potential solutions, including how to help more South Carolinians have health insurance.
“We are at a critical time for helping people access and afford healthcare in South Carolina,” said ACS CAN Regional Government Relations Director Beth Johnson. “We want to make sure the public and our lawmakers understand the potential solutions.”
This year in South Carolina, more than 6,000 women will be diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer and around 800 will die from the disease. Many breast and cervical cancer survivors, as well as their loved ones, are expected to attend.
WHO: Emcee Meg Kinnard, SC Lawmakers and Breast and Cervical Cancer Patients and Survivors
WHAT: Ann Riley Pink Tea
WHERE: Satterlee Hall, Trinity Episcopal Church, 1100 Sumter Street, Columbia
WHEN: Thursday, October 8 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon
**Photos from Past Pink Tea**