Greenspan Declares Recession – DUH

Over the last five years those of us who work with people who have slipped from barely making a living into devastating poverty are in no way surprised by Mr. Greenspan’s statements yesterday. There has been a recession going on for our lower income citizens since the price of gas went over two and a half dollars.

Working single mothers, minimum wage earners and those who rely on generous tips from their customers hit the benchmark and have continued to fall further and further into desperation. Making decisions no American should have to make. Decisions like, do I buy my medicine or do I buy food? Do I go to the doctor or do I try to ride this illness out and feed my family?

As many of you know we have a project providing Outreach, Education and Screening Mammograms for women and men who are underinsured, uninsured or can not afford their co-payments for regular breast screenings, diagnostic or ultrasound procedures in Carroll and Madison Counties of Northwest Arkansas.

Each year we not only pay for these procedures we reach out to over two thousand women with educational programs and literature on breast health and breast self-examinations. We even have a breast care navigator to assist those who do find they need additional procedures to help them through the complex maze of the medical world which becomes even more complex when you do not have insurance or money to pay for these effective but very costly procedures.

In the last 15 months we have provided over $57,750 in financial assistance and have a commitment for over $42,000 for these services over the next 12 months. That amounts to nearly $100,000 in breast care in 27 months.

While every one of us involved in the project gasps when someone gets negative results our hearts raise up a prayer of thanks that we might be a small part of saving someone’s life. We have seen the faces of women whose lives have been saved because of these early detection and educational programs.

The next question is where do we get the funds to continue this needed service in these low income areas? The answer is two sources. The main source in the Ozark Affiliate of the Susan G. Komen, For the Cure. Where do they get their money? A lot of sources, but the main source is their annual “Race for the Cure” held in Springdale, Arkansas. This year it will be held – come rain or shine – on April 19th. I personally, our Board and those two thousand women who count on us are asking you to come out and join in this fun and worthwhile event. For more information call the Affiliate Office at (479) 750-PINK. You’ll have a great time, meet many wonderful people, many who are survivors, and be helping so many in these difficult times.

The other source is from people just like you. People who care about those less fortunate and want to be part of saving lives in this area. You can donate on-line at our website and specify for Women’s Health or any one of our successful projects or programs by clicking here

If filling your gas tank with $3.25 a gallon gas is an aggravation and not a choice between getting to work or feeding your children… make a difference… right now. Call the Affiliate and sign up for the race or make your direct gift right now.