Getaway promotes breast health

Alexis Barker
NLJ News Editor
 
A day of shopping, food, friends and health promises to be the getaway every girl needs at the second annual Weston County Health Services Girls Getaway, being held Saturday at the Newcastle Lodge and Convention Center. As a way to promote breast health and highlight the access to 3D mammography technology in Newcastle, the hospital launched the event last year, said the hospital’s administrative assistant, Denice Pisciotti. 
“We have two partners assisting with the event. The Wyoming Breast Cancer Initiative has given Weston County Health Services a grant to help us put on the event,” Pisciotti said. “Wyoming Cancer Resource Services will be on hand with cancer education and other resources.” 
She noted that Cancer Resource Services had helped spark the idea last year when Kim Nelson a representative with the service asked Pisciotti about promoting the hospital’s new mammography machine. 
Nelson told the News Letter Journal that she serves Weston, Crook, Johnson, Campbell and Sheridan counties and that the entity’s main focus is promoting screening and early detection. She said that the Cancer Resource Services also provides help to cancer patients. 
The 2020 event is being held a little later than last year’s, Pisciotti said, but the hope is to provide the same opportunities to attendees. 
“This year we wanted to have the Girls Getaway in October since it is Breast Cancer Awareness Month,” Pisciotti said. “We had a good turnout last year and are hopeful to have the same this year.”  
With the goal of continuing breast health education and awareness, two different providers will offer free breast exams and information will be readily available from various sources. 
“Sara Thurgood, MD, and Ashley Tupper, FNP, will be available to answer questions and perform free breast exams. This will take place upstairs,” Pisciotti said. “We couldn’t have a getaway without shopping. Downstairs in the banquet room, there will be a wide variety of vendors.” 
Whether browsing, snacking or chatting, Pisciotti said, those who attend are encouraged to social distance and to wear facemasks to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Pisciotti said that masks will be available at the entrance. 
Women will have access to free breast exams, information on breast health, refreshments and the opportunity to do some shopping during the event, held at the Newcastle Lodge and Convention Center on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.