FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290

Gov. Blunt, First Lady Light Arch Pink to Honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month

ST. LOUIS - Gov. Matt Blunt and First Lady Melanie Blunt this evening participated in a ceremony to light the Gateway Arch pink in recognition of breast cancer awareness month.

"Breast Cancer Awareness Month provides a valuable opportunity to reflect on the disease and the importance of finding a cure," Gov. Blunt said. "The impact of this disease on our families is devastating. Lighting the Gateway Arch in pink is an appropriate tribute to the nearly 4,000 Missouri women diagnosed with breast cancer every year and the countless survivors and family members who have been affected by the disease. It also serves as a reminder for Missourians about the importance of early detection and breast cancer screenings."

"The most significant message I can send about breast cancer is the importance of early detection, the value of regular screenings, and the crucial role we all play in our own health," said Mrs. Blunt, who lost her mother to the disease. "As your first lady, I have focused on women's and children's wellness, and as we recognize and celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I urge Missourians to recognize the importance of early detection and to take time for breast cancer screenings."

The Gateway Arch will be illuminated in pink for one night in recognition of the millions of women battling breast cancer and those who lost their lives fighting the disease, as well as to help raise breast cancer awareness. Tonight's colorful display is hosted by Macy's and marks the fourth consecutive year the Gateway Arch has been lit pink for one night in October - a tradition that Macy's is proud to continue to sponsor to support the fight against breast cancer.

"On October 10, the Gateway Arch will stand as a stunning beacon of hope to remind women everywhere that early detection does save lives," said William P McNamara, chairman and chief executive officer of Macy's Midwest, headquartered in St. Louis. "Speaking for everyone in our organization coast to coast, we are extremely proud to raise awareness in an effort to help find a cure."

Earlier this month Gov. and Mrs. Blunt hosted a reception honoring organizations and individuals making a mark in the fight to find a cure for breast cancer. At the event that attracted more than 300 guests from across the state, Gov. Matt Blunt officially recognized October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Missouri.

In this year's state budget, Gov. Blunt secured a $500,000 increase to expand the number of breast and cervical cancer screenings through the Show Me Healthy Women Program. The Show Me Healthy Women program offers free breast and cervical cancer screenings to thousands of Missouri women who meet specific residency, age and income guidelines. The additional funding is more than three times last year's state funding and will allow the program to serve approximately 1,225 additional women next year

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month the fountain at the Missouri Governor's Mansion in Jefferson City is also featuring pink lights throughout the month.

Promoting breast cancer awareness is an important aspect of the first lady's women's wellness initiative. She serves as spokesperson and honorary chair for the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Mid-Missouri Affiliate and is committed to encouraging Missouri women to take time for breast cancer screenings and to promoting breast cancer research and awareness.

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