'Horses and Hope' at Keeneland

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Oct. 29, 2009) − The Markey Cancer Foundation is sponsoring the "Horses and Hope" event Thursday, Oct. 29, at Keeneland on behalf of the Markey Cancer Center.

Horses and Hope is a breast cancer initiative of Kentucky First Lady Jane Beshear and the Kentucky Cancer Program (KCP).  The project works with the state’s equine industry to identify new opportunities to provide breast cancer awareness, education, early detection through screening, and treatment referral as well as to raise funds to sustain programs in the future. 

"Horses and Hope is a project near to my heart," Beshear said.  “It’s about saving lives and connecting with women in a truly genuine, unparalleled approach.  I am grateful to be partnering with the Markey Cancer Foundation on this particular event, as they are a vital asset in our efforts to increase breast cancer awareness across the Commonwealth."

Thursday's event includes a Breast Cancer Race Day, when the Pink Stable and  KCP will work together to coordinate special breast cancer awareness and education.  Activities include educational exhibits, distribution of breast health and screening information and special incentives for race fans. 

Horses and Hope is also coordinating "Backside Outreach,"  in which KCP will employ and train part-time outreach workers to provide brief one-on-one interventions, group education, and screening referrals to track workers and their families, placing special emphasis on the uninsured and underinsured. 

KCP will promote opportunities to link women with screening resources such as mobile mammography, the Kentucky Women’s Cancer Screening Program through local health departments, and the Kentucky Racing Health and Welfare Fund.

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death among Kentucky’s women.  According to the Kentucky Cancer Registry, an average of 2,700 new cases will be diagnosed this year, and nearly 600 women across the Commonwealth will lose their fight with this terrible disease.