Shaking ping pong balls in downtown Lexington to raise awareness of colon cancer screening
Originally published by WEKU.
Increasing screening for colon cancer continues to be an ongoing emphasis in Kentucky. A Lexington man with significant experience with the disease hopes to boost awareness this weekend.
Alex Herring was not even in his mid-30’s when diagnosed with stage four colon cancer. He’s been through surgeries and chemotherapy and now a primary goal is spreading the word about screening. Herring said the first awareness event with a colorful name will be held Saturday, one to five at Ethereal Brewing.
“With colon cancer you’re literally talking about people’s bowels and their habits there, which is a very awkward conversation. So, with Shake Ass for the Bluegrass we really tried to remove that awkward component and just try to make it more about fun,” said Herring.
That fun will include shaking ping pong balls out of a box and raffle prizes. In addition, Herring noted there will be colon screening info and a registered nurse to answer questions. He plans to have some heart-to-heart talks during the four-hour event.
“My goal is to talk to about 20 people per hour in a serious capacity that engages them on all the important issues of this topic. There not just for passing, but we feel if we can get 20 people through per hour and talk to at least 80 people that would be a good success for our very first event,” said Herring.
Herring said Kentucky leads the nation in the incidence of colon cancer in those under age 45. He said his bout with cancer led his brother to be screened and it’s resulted in pre-cancer polyp removals. Herring noted neither he nor his brother found a genetic connection to colon cancer. The Lexington man added that leads him to believe environmental factors are to be considered. Herring said he’s now undetectable for cancer and undergoing maintenance chemo.
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Originally published by WEKU.
Republished with permission.
