May 12-16 is Marianas March Against Cancer Week

Lt. Gov. Tim P. Villagomez has proclaimed the week of May 12-16 as Marianas March Against Cancer Week.

Public Health Secretary Joseph Kevin Villagomez, Commonwealth Cancer Association vice chair Alex Sablan, Marianas March Against Cancer chair David Rosario and other members of the MMAC and CCA witnessed the proclamation signing that was held yesterday morning at the Northwest Airlines check-in counter at the Saipan International Airport.

Northwest Airlines is the title sponsor of the MMAC event, along with Duty Free Shoppers, PTI, Joeten Charitable Foundation, Bank of Guam, Sorensen Media Saipan, Power 99 and 97.9 The KAT.

Cancer survivor Dr. Jon Joyner read the proclamation before the endorsement. He read that the week dedicated to the Marianas March Against Cancer in intended to create heightened awareness of cancer.

“Cancer is the second leading cause of death for men and women in the CNMI. Because cancer does not discriminate by age, gender, or race, it is important to know that the sooner cancer is found and treatment begins, the better of the chances of living for many years,” Joyner read.

“Everyone is encouraged to fight against the deadly disease by participating in the upcoming Marianas March Against Cancer,” he added.

The 2008 Marianas March will be held at the Hopwood Junior High School Track & Field in Chalan Piao on May 16-17 from 6pm to 6am.

The lieutenant governor encourages all members of the community to celebrate the week by honoring survivors of cancer and commemorating those who have passed away and learning as much as possible on how to prevent this deadly disease.

“What I look forward to about MMAC is despite the difficulties and challenges, there is always a positive atmosphere among those who choose to be a part of this,” Villagomez said. “I would like to issue a challenge to each resident of the Commonwealth for this year’s march—be a part of it.”

Breast cancer survivor Nora Sablan is encouraging other survivors of the disease to take part in the MMAC events and activities coming up.

On May 7, an orientation dinner at the Fiesta Resort at 6:30pm will be provided for all cancer survivors who wish to attend. Seats are limited so please contact the Survivors Committee Chairwoman Nora Sablan at 235-0998 or via email at norasablan@gmail.com to confirm your attendance.