Breast Cancer Survivors Honored at State Ceremony

NASHVILLE –First Lady Andrea Conte joined officials from across state government today to pay tribute to Tennessee’s state employees who have survived breast cancer.

Close to 100 state workers were honored at the event today at the War Memorial Auditorium in downtown Nashville.  Local news anchors Vicki Yates (WTVF), Holly Thompson (WSMV), Julie Kroenig (WKRN) and Scott Couch (WZTV) were on hand to read the names of the honorees as they accepted a pink rose and certificate from the First Lady and the commissioner or representative from their state department.

“Breast cancer is still the most common cancer among women in Tennessee,” said Conte. “We’re here today to honor the women in state government who have fought
the challenges of this disease.  We salute your courage and support you.”

This fourth annual event created by the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development was designed in 2004 to honor the department’s own breast cancer survivors.  In 2005, the event expanded to include all employees who work for the state of Tennessee.

“This is one of the few events where employees can come together, be recognized,
and gain strength as a group,” said Department or Labor and Workforce Development Commissioner James Neeley.  “We hope this event not only properly honors our employees, but also informs others in state government about cancer prevention
and support.”

The Tennessee Department of Health’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Program provides clinical breast exams, mammograms and Pap test for eligible Tennessee women free of charge.  Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer death in women in the United States.  In Tennessee, more than 3,800 cases are found annually.  More information about breast cancer awareness, prevention and early detection can be found at www.tennessee.gov/health.