In an effort to encourage women 40 years of age and older to undergo an annual mammogram, Carol Jo Vecchie Women’s Services at St. John’s Hospital and the American Cancer Society are teaming up with other community partners during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October to remind the public about the importance of early detection for breast cancer.

Who are the Real Men in Pink?

The “Real Men Wear Pink” campaign is designed to encourage men to remind the women in their lives to get their annual mammograms. Men can help spread the word about the importance of early detection by wearing pink attire every Friday in October.

Why do Real Men Wear Pink?

• On October 1, send a postcard or electronic mammogram reminder to the women you know. Make sure they make -- and keep -- their annual mammogram appointment.
• Jim Herron Ltd, Jos. A. Bank and Macy's and other retailers will be offering a greater selection of men's pink dress and golf shirts and ties. Macy's constructed a special wall for pink men's apparel and ties in the men's department on the lower level.
• The Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk, sponsored by the American Cancer Assocation, is October 12.
• Customers wearing pink on Fridays in October will receive 10% off at Indigo restaurant in Springfield and a free small cider slushy at The Apple Barn in Chatham. On Tuesdays in October, Ross Issac restaurant in Springfield will have specials for those wearing pink.
• The Lincoln Land Community College Women’s Volleyball team is donating all proceeds from its October 23 game against Lincoln College to support breast cancer support services at St. John's. The team will play in pink uniforms. General admission is $3, or $2 for students and fans dressed in pink attire.

St. John's Mammography Center now offers digital mammography. To schedule a mammogram, call 757-6565. A physician's order is required.