Posted Date: 10/2/2025
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Vandalia Health Mon Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital is partnering with local groups to highlight the critical role of early detection.
Recently, a health assessment showed that Lewis County has one of the state’s lowest rates for mammography screening. Only 34% of eligible women with Medicare in the county get mammograms. This low number likely contributes to the county’s high premature death rates, which are nearly double the national average.
To raise awareness, Mon Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital and the Lewis County Community, Education, Outreach, Service (CEOS) clubs are hosting the 31st annual Breast Cancer Awareness Luncheon on Wednesday, October 8, at Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church in Weston. Local doctor Robert Snuffer, DO, will be the keynote speaker. He’ll be joined by Mark Casto, the Surgical Department Director and a cancer survivor, who is also an advocate for men’s health initiatives. The lunch is open to the public, and reservations can be made by calling the West Virginia University Extension Service at 304-269-4660. Mark Casto emphasized the importance of early detection: “These events remind us that screenings save lives and that we can support each other through this journey.”
Additionally, on October 18, a Color Run will take place at the hospital. Participants can opt for a 5K or 3K course. This fun run will feature colorful, non-toxic powders thrown at runners as they go along the route. Aimed at being a fun and friendly event, it’s a chance to spread joy and awareness. Participants are encouraged to wear white shirts for a vibrant effect. Pre-registration is $25 and $30 on the race day. All proceeds go to support the American Cancer Society and Mark Casto’s Men Wear Pink campaign.
Lisa Songer, Chief Administrative Officer of Vandalia Health Mon Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital, expressed pride in collaborating with community partners to raise awareness about breast cancer. “Together, we can help more women take charge of their health and encourage them to get screened,” she said.
For more details about these events, you can call 304-517-8612.
Breast cancer remains a leading cause of death among women. According to the American Cancer Society, about 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Early detection through regular screenings is vital, as it can significantly increase survival rates. In fact, if caught early, the five-year survival rate is over 90%.
Let’s join the conversation on social media to spread the word about breast cancer awareness and the importance of screenings.
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