In honor of National Breast Cancer Month, Southwell wlll be holding a Girls Night Out event in Adel on Oct. 29 and a breast cancer lunch-and-learn seminar in Ashburn on Oct. 31. Besides skin cancer, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among American women. In 2019, it's estimated that about 30 percent of newly-diagnosed cancers in women will be breast cancers. Early detection is the key. Southwell’s breast cancer events are designed to raise awareness about this disease and to encourage women to take charge of their health.

The Girls Night Out event will be held on Oct. 29 at the mammography suite of the new Southwell Medical facility in Adel. Recently, Cook Medical Center moved to a brand new, state-of-the-art healthcare complex located in Adel at 260 MJ Taylor Road, right off Interstate 75 at exit 37. With the move, Cook Medical Center’s name was changed to Southwell Medical. From 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Oct. 29, Southwell Medical will be offering special times for mammography appointments as part of Girls Night Out. Annual mammograms can detect cancer early — when it is most treatable. In fact, mammograms show changes in the breast up to two years before a patient or physician can feel them. Mammograms can also prevent the need for extensive treatment for advanced cancers and improve chances of breast conservation.

Women can also enjoy free hors d’oeuvres, giveaways and educational information during Girls Night Out. Appointments are required for the mammography exams and slots are limited. To make an appointment, please call 229-353-6316. A provider referral is required. Medicare, Medicaid and most forms of insurance are accepted.

Southwell’s Tift Regional Medical Center will also be teaming with South Georgia Banking Company and the Georgia Department of Community Health-Turner County to offer a free breast cancer lunch-and-learn seminar in Ashburn on Oct. 31. This event will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, located in Ashburn at 302 McLendon Street. The featured speakers will be nurse practitioner Mendi Stone, FNP-C with Affinity Physicians for Women and nurse manager Mary Anne Sturdevan, RN with the Turner County Health Department. These speakers will cover breast cancer prevention, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options. A complimentary meal is included. Seating is limited and registration is required. Please register in the calendar of events section or call 229-353-6316.