Thank you to everyone that participated in this year's Feb-U-Hairy! Because of your efforts, more women are empowered with knowledge to take charge of their health.
Your fundraising efforts helped raise over $4,500, which will support Planned Parenthood's Thursday Evening Pap Clinic. Every year, close to 900 women come to Planned Parenthood for a Pap test. For an appointment, please phone 579-1009.
We would like to thank Susan Earles and the Cervical Screening Initiative for their continued support of Feb-U-Hairy and our Pap clinics. Susan gave a very informative and fun filled discussion during our closing party. Everyone walked away with increased knowledge about cervical cancer and the importance of a regular Pap test.
We would also like to thank our prize sponsors: Shoppers Drug Mart (250 Lemarchant Road); TVAL Skincare (280 Water Street); Karma Hair Salon (132 Water Street); and Soothe Health and Beauty Spa (49-55 Elizabeth Ave). . The winners of the prizes were The Hariettes (most money raised by a group); Leona Molloy (most money raised by an individual); and Jackie Pope (most active participant).
Tax receipts for those that requested them will be sent in the mail in the next couple of weeks. Anyone with sponsorship money can drop it off or mail a check to Planned Parenthood, 203 Merrymeeting Road, St. John's, NL, A1E 1P5. Please ensure that the pledge sheet is completely filled out for anyone requiring a receipt.
Why is cervical screening so important?
Women in Newfoundland and Labrador have one of the highest rates of cervical cancer in the country. Pap tests are a quick and painless way to detect abnormalities with the cells of the cervix before they become cancerous.
But yet, some women do not go for Pap tests. Many dislike the idea of the procedure; others do not understand the reasons for it. Fear also plays a role. Women who are older and women with disabilities tend to have Pap test less frequently. It is easy for women to put off going to the doctor, especially when they feel well and find the test to be embarrassing.
Pap tests reduce women's chances of ever having to deal with cancer of the cervix. While Planned Parenthood encourages all women to speak to their family doctors about a regular Pap test, Planned Parenthood is another option. And with the support of the Cervical Screening Initiative, we are able to offer evening Pap clinics on Thursdays from 5 to 7:30 PM, along with our other regular clinics. Planned Parenthood has a height adjustable exam bed, which makes it easier for women with mobility impairments to get onto the bed. Phone 579-1009 or 1-877-NO-MYTHS for an appointment or for more information.
