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Page 4 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 On Thursday, October 3rd, it was a very large crowd that gathered in the shop area of Collision Concepts for the annual Pink Pumpkin fundraiser Auction. Karen Castelein stood at the front of the live auction and counted heads, coming up with a number of at least 250 people gathered for the auction. This was the largest crowd to date for the auction, and also the largest number of auction items to date. With more than 60 items in the live auction and 150 in the silent auction, the potential to raise money for the American Cancer Society was great. In 2023, the fundraiser brought in $38,000 in one night, and that record high will stand for another year, with 2024 coming in a very close second at just over $36,000. Since the inception of the fundraiser in 2018, the auction has brought in a grand total of $125,000 for ACS. Pink Pumpkin Auction Another is in the books Continued --
Page 5 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 The night began with guests encouraged to fill their plates with food provided by Nuthatch Hill BBQ and Cindy Guyett and friends. There were free beverages at the food table, and a separate wine table provided by Joe and Michelle Ryan. In the main shop area, tables were set up at the far end of the room for the silent auction items, with the live auction items forming an arcing sweep across the front of the room. On the far side of the room Bill Post and Tonita Reifsteck were selling luminaria while Janice Funk was selling mystery bags filled with items donated by area businesses. During the silent auction, there were times when guests were shoulder to shoulder in that area, examining what was being offered and placing bids on items they most desired to take home with them at the end of the night. At the same time, there was a large group of folks who were busy browsing the long, long line of live auction items. At 6 p.m. the silent auction was closed for the night and the live auction was just minutes away. The Pink Pumpkin Auction Committee came to the front of the room and were introduced. There was a word of gratitude expressed to those in attendance as well as those who had donated items for the live and or silent auctions. There was a brief run down of the American Cancer Society, who they are, what they do, and what they do with the money that is raised, including patient support programs, motel stays, transportation for warriors to treatments, and grants paid out to research and university hospitals including several in Illinois. Continued --
Page 6 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 There was a call to the audience for those who are cancer survivors to please stand and be acknowledged. More than a dozen people stood. There was then a call for all those who have lost loved ones to cancer to please stand and be acknowledged and there were a great many who answered that call. Following the acknowledgement of those who had lost loved ones, there was a moment of silence for those who have passed which was part of the luminaria observance for the evening. Turning away from the solemn moment and getting ready to amp up the fun, the Logan County Fair royalty was introduced. On hand for the evening was Little Miss Logan County Olivia Harmsen and Junior Miss Logan County Sophia Goodman. Ty and Cody Tucker were then introduced as the auctioneers for the evening, with Cindy Guyett being the “reader” who would assist with describing the items being offered on the auction block. The next nearly two hours brought in lots of fun, laughter, teasing from the auctioneers, and big bucks for ACS. Some of the highlights of the evening included the re-sale of the Susan G. Komen bike that had sold last year, was donated back and sold again this year not once but twice. Seth Goodman and his mom Gaynor seemed to get a big kick out of bidding against one another for the bike, though it could have been a bit of a set up for Seth as at the end of the night, Gaynor walked away having won nothing and Seth was left to pay for all the items she bid Continued --
Page 7 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 him up on, including the bike. Thanks to the mother son team the bike brought $4,000 the first time around. Collision Concepts also offered a $1,500 match on the bike so that first time it brought in more than $5,500. Later on in the evening, out of the blue the bike was wheeled front and center and it was announced that it was going to sell again. This time the winning bidder was Greg Patel. Another fun auction was that of the pink tractor donated by Central Illinois Ag with a custom pink paint job done by Darrin Schempp of Atlanta. The tractor came with a pre-determined matching bid of up to $1,000 by Lincoln Daily News. In the end Don Peasley purchased the tractor for slightly over $1,000. With the match the tractor brought in $2,000. Another fun item that went at a good price was a gift basket made by former Little Miss Logan County Kodi Eigenbrod, who served as Little Miss in 2023. Kodi had helped with the 2023 auction and had enjoyed it greatly. This year she wanted to contribute again, so she made jewelry, a ring, necklace and bracelet and put it is a gift basket with a gift card. The item brought in a large amount for the American Cancer Society. There was another basket that contained a lot of candy and it was purchased and given to the 2024 Junior Miss and Little Miss as a thank you from the buyer. Eleven year-old Bryson Alley, the son of Dwayne Alley of D-Fades in Lincoln, was another youth who wanted to help. He and his dad designed a red, white and blue pumpkin for the auction which was snatched up quickly during the live auction. Both of the young donors were praised for their compassion and desire to do something good in their community. At the end of the night, there was a large sigh of relief from the committee. As everyone knows there is always that brief moment of doubt when planning a party. Will anyone come, will everything go right, will it all be worth it? Continued --
Page 8 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Then when the night is over, and all three questions have been answered with a resounding YES, everyone sighs, goes home to get some sleep, and the next day they start many of their sentences with “Next year….” So in the spirit of Yes Virginia there is a Santa Claus….yes Logan County there will be a Pink Pumpkin Auction next year, and we can’t wait to see you all there to do it all over again. But until then…sleep tight.
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Page 24 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Each year at the beginning of the Pink Pumpkin Auction to benefit the American Cancer Society a small group of people stand at the front to thank guests for their attendance, speak about the American Cancer Society and encourage everyone to support the fundraiser. That group is the planning committee for the annual event and consists of Karen Castelein, Annie Coers, Cindy Guyett, Jennifer Luckhart, Nila Smith and Chassidy White. These five people work hard starting about three months ahead of auction night to assure that everything goes as planned. But, they are never alone in these efforts. There are dozens of people who play a part in the success of the night, and they are often hidden in the background performing tasks that are necessary with out seeking any recognition of their contributions. Thank you all for showing your love for our cancer warriors The committee knows each one of these folks, and knows the effort they put into making the night a success. Among the first to be called on to help out is the staff at Lincoln Daily News. In addition to performing their daily duties for the paper, they take on chores that will benefit the auction. Noah Adkins does all the printing of signs and banners for the auction, and he donates his time and materials. He does a wonderful job, and he is much appreciated by the committee. Another large group of silent heroes are the folks who work at Collision Concepts. Try to imagine if you will what it takes to turn a working autobody shop with wrecked vehicles and parts filling every bay in to the pristinely clean, very well-organized event that guests find on Thursday night. They do everything from moving everything out of the building and tucking it all away in other locations, to mopping floors and helping with the setting up of tables and chairs, helping to bring in the auction items once they are delivered to the venue, and sticking around throughout the night and making themselves available to help buyers get to their vehicles with their merchandise. Then it is tear down all the Continued --
Page 25 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 tables, fold all the chairs, pick up all the trash and move back in all the parts and wrecked cars that were hauled out earlier in the day. They work very hard and it is not said often enough or loud enough how their efforts are appreciated. It is also not mentioned often enough or loud enough that the Logan County Fair Board happily loans the auction all the tables needed for the evening, and for the past two years, Don Peasley with Peasley Funeral Homes has provided those wonderfully comfortable padded chairs that guests enjoy during the auction. Another group that is unsung is the staff from Illinois American Water, who for the last several years have gone to the fairground and loaded up the 40 plus tables needed and delivers them to Collision and helps unload them. The following morning they return to Collision and gather those tables up and return them to the fairground. Continued --
Page 26 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 This year, another addition to the list of unsung heroes is Brad Matthews. With more than 200 items to transport from the office of Lincoln Daily News to Collision Concepts, Matthews and a couple of his staff came to the LDN office with a box trailer and loaded every item, then carefully drove it all to Collision where they helped with unloading it. Annie Coers solicits volunteers from the staff at Tremont Bank to help with checking out customers at the end of the auction. Staff from Collision and LDN also volunteer to help out being runners for bid sheets, and helping with the check-out table and cashier tables. Bill Post, Tonita Reifsteck and Janice Funk are on hand the night of the auction selling luminaria and mystery bags. Continued --
Page 27 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Tim and Libby Canady provide the sound system for the auction. A new attraction this year was a lovely balloon arch at the photo backdrop. It was put together by Kate Andrews who donated her time and talent in honor of her son who is a cancer survivor. Joe & Michelle Ryan volunteered last year to provide a wine table and did so again this year. It is a much-appreciated contribution to the success of the night. Of course Brad and Jennifer Luckhart provided much of the food along with Cindy Guyett and friends. The committee also greatly appreciates the efforts of the auctioneers. This year Ty Tucker and his brother Cody conducted the live auction donating their time and talents to the success of the event. And last but far from least the Little Miss Logan County Olivia Harmsen and Junior Miss Logan County Sophia Goodman and their families deserve many thanks for giving their time and wonderful talent to the auction. There are many more that are involved by donating auction items, for it wouldn’t be an auction without items, and there would also not be an auction without bidders. The committee wishes to thank all these people and any they too may have overlooked in this note. Without all of these people, without all of YOU, this would be a wasted effort. Thank you for all you do.
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Page 50 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Doug & Pat Piper Tonita Reifsteck Jim Welchel Larry O’Neal & Carla Bledsoe Balloons Backdrop And A
Page 51 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Darrell & Pam Turner Jay Thomas, Bailey Gilum and Carol Hoss Myah, Micah, Jenna & Amanda Bowman Chris Guerra Dax, Dom, Dietrick, & Rylee Hamblin Chad Bates, Andrea, Hendrex, Lillian, Caroline, & Evelyn
Page 52 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Jake Johnston and Marie Johnston Lonnie Wilbur and Theresa Skinner Ladonna Alexander Marsha Hurley, Mary O’Donoghue, and Julie Bobb Chris Coyne & Tia Taylor Brad & Jennifer Luckhart
Page 53 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Pam Dammerman and Misty Heath Billy Hall and Christina Frakes Karen Castelein, Chassidy White, and Nila smith Amy Ingram and Roger Shelton Laurel Castleman, Terry Casetleman, Moddy Godden, Joe Godden and Kathy Godden Sharon Wright and Gary Warren
Page 54 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Joe & Michelle Ryan Tanya & Bradley Spinner Lora Bemont Alexis Shull and Autumn Martin Emily Hilgendorf Angela Durbin and Scott Hayes
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Page 56 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Abby Tomaw and Cole Erika, Kodi and Kolt Eigenbrod Brad & Tonya Matthews Deron & Kristi Powell Tom & Gloria Yearley Cori, Baylor & Andrew Ingram
Page 57 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 David & Toni Leevey Chad Lohrenz Troy Waker and Troy & Willow Dan Benedict Sean Bull, Christine Kohlrus, Sophia, Mayerli and Nathalia Lopez Little Miss Logan County Olivia Harmsen & Junior Miss Logan County Sophia Goodman
Page 58 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Lindsey Guy and Allena Benninger Jeremy & Lisa Letterle Jenna & Myah Bowman Mark & Courtney Davis Alice Engle and Jack Russell Webb
Page 59 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Tim Goodman & Alexis Buckles Brandon & Amber Altmix Gabe Vanslambrouck and Devyn Fry The Triple A’s – Alexis, Autumn and Aubrey Jake Johnston and Joe Ryan Joe & Michelle Ryan
Page 60 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Little Miss Olivia and Junior Miss Sophia Russel & Jayne Ruppel Lois Renfro Tom & Gloria Yearley Sharon Wright and Gary Warren Nancy Schaub
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Page 62 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Linda Ray Don Peasley & Baylor Ingram Linda Ray and Brett Bowman Leslie Keller and Brandi Patterson Baylor Ingram Cindy Guyett and her gal pals
Page 63 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Cori, Andrew and Baylor Ingram Seth and Gaynor Goodman Rich & Nila Smith Angela Durbin and Scott Hayes Barbara George Alice Engle
Page 64 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Tina Hodges of Lincoln feels ‘truly blessed for her family and grateful for every day.” On July 29, 2021, Tina went in for her first mammogram, a routine check up her Dr. suggested because of her age. Upon suspicious findings, a diagnostic mammogram with ultrasound and then an ultrasound guided biopsy was scheduled quickly. The results indicated that Tina had Invasive Ductal Carcinoma of the right breast. The oncologist and surgeon recommend partial mastectomy of the right breast, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. A date for the surgery In year three of her breast cancer battle, Tina Hodges is thankful for every day was set, but unfortunately had to be postponed because Tina was diagnosed with Covid-19. After Tina recovered a second surgery date was set, but Tina’s immune system was compromised, and she was diagnosed with strep throat. After two rounds of antibiotics with little improvement, Tina saw an infectious disease specialist that diagnosed long haul Covid along with Mononucleosis and strep throat. It was February of 2022 before Tina was healthy enough to undergo surgery. A follow Continued --
Page 65 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 up mammogram was scheduled to check for growth. Praise God only a little bit of growth was detected. Tina continued to have a rocky health journey and developed cardiac issues as well as uterine fibroids. While in the emergency room in July of 2022 Tina received a blood transfusion because of excessive bleeding of the fibroids. It was also found that she had bilateral pulmonary embolisms and was admitted to the hospital for 8 days. During that hospital stay another mammogram was done and in just 6 short months the cancer in her right breast had grown and there were suspicious findings in the left breast. Her surgeon explained that while the cells in the left breast were not cancer at this time, abnormal cells can turn into cancer at any time. The decision was made to have a double mastectomy along with chemotherapy. Surgery was set for September 8, 2022, but the road to that surgery date was paved with more illness and neurological issues. After another trip to the hospital with an EKG, CTA, MRI, and lab work, a stroke was ruled out, so surgery was able to take place as expected. The surgery took 12 hours to complete. Tina developed an infection on the right side and was put on a course of antibiotics. Infection then set in on the left side and Tina was admitted to the hospital for IV infusions to treat the infection. Chemotherapy was postponed until the infection was clear. Tina also had surgery to have her fibroids and uterus removed. In January of 2023 chemotherapy treatment began, but Covid Continued --
Page 66 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 struck again in February of 2023. After trying chemotherapy for a year, covid struck again in January of 2024 and the Oncologist decided that Tina’s health was failing so chemotherapy was discontinued. She had received enough treatments to give her a 10 percent chance of the cancer recurring, much the same chance given to other women with the same cancer and treatment plan. Tina will be on the chemotherapy pill for the next 5-7 years to try to keep the cancer from returning. She follows up with the oncologist every three months and sees the surgeon every six months. Tina says her “faith in God keeps her hopeful that the cancer will not return.” She takes it one day at a time and is grateful for every second she has. [Lesleigh Bennett]
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Page 68 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Paint Paper the PINK Collision Concepts
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Page 70 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Sew Personal Embroidery Cha-Dai Pet Motel
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Page 72 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Lincoln Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Michelle Bauer Country Financial
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Page 76 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 D-Fades Barber Shop Midwest Solutions
Page 77 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Atlanta National Bank Gail’s Pumpkin Patch
Page 78 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Longview Bank - Mt. Pulaski Loan Office Longview Bank - Mt. Pulaski
Page 79 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Longview Bank - Chestnut DCPM Insurance
Page 80 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Moriearty Insurance Logan County Genealogical & Historical Society
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Page 82 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 There are more than 18 million cancer survivors in the United States. October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Across the country, stories will be shared, fundraising walks will be held, and just like every month, more women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. For survivors, it’s also a time of reflection and continuing to live ‘a new normal,’ post-cancer. When it comes to cancer, most people think about physical pain that is often associated with a diagnosis. But the emotional toll that Life after cancer comes with this serious disease can many times be just as devastating. Those feelings can include fear, denial, anger, sadness and more. And the wave of emotions tends to change hourly, daily and even minute to minute. A cancer diagnosis now becomes all-consuming for both the person and perhaps loved ones as well. And that can remain true even after the cancer has come and gone. “Life after a diagnosis completely turns your life upside down,” says Nicole Wagner, an oncology nurse navigator for OSF HealthCare. “It's really hard to find your footing; hard to find your bearings. It's hard to find something solid to hold on to after something like [a cancer diagnosis].” Wagner encourages people to find ways to cope with their emotions. For example, build a support group of people you feel comfortable talking to. Find ways to relax, such as meditation, guided imagery and exercise. Choose when and how to talk about your cancer. Continued --
Page 83 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 If you find that you’re still struggling emotionally, it might be time to seek help. Start by speaking to your doctor or someone you can confide in. Support groups are helpful for survivors currently going through treatment. But they are also invaluable for people post-cancer. Wagner says newly diagnosed patients can learn significant lessons sitting alongside other survivors who are years removed from their own diagnosis. “Maybe there are things we hold back from our family because we don't want them to worry,” says Wagner. “[A support group] is a safe place to share and be able to talk to someone who knows exactly how you’re feeling.” Wagner says it’s natural to have a fear of recurrence of cancer. But it’s also crucial to give yourself time to heal after treatment. Try not to dwell on your cancer experience, she says. But if you do feel like something’s not right, remember to check in with your medical team. “It’s important to focus on the things you can control. Cancer takes control of things that you wish it hadn't,” says Wagner. “And I think focusing on the things you can control, like getting your rest, being with loved ones, friends, family, singing, whatever brings you joy, being in nature, those are things we can control.” Some people will adapt slowly to life without any more appointments or treatments. Many survivors have been involved in active care for weeks, months or longer. So, what now? Wagner encourages survivors to stay busy, whether that’s returning to work or finding new activities such as hobbies, exercise or re-entering social circles you were a part of before your cancer diagnosis. And continue to accept any support that comes your way. “I think there is a tendency to want to rush right back to your old life – or what looks like normal,” Wagner says. “I think it's important for families to remember that too. Once we get through treatment, it isn't over. There's still a lot of healing to do, and a lot of support is needed.” For more information on cancer care, including treatments, patient education and support services, visit OSF HealthCare. OSF HEALTHCARE
Page 84 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Scientists ID Signals That May Trigger BRCA1 Breast Cancer An ACS-funded researcher may have found a future drug target to help prevent BRCA1related breast cancer – signals from the stroma to the epithelium. The Challenge About 55% to 72% of women who inherit a damaged (mutated) BRCA1 gene will develop breast cancer by age 70 or 80. That’s a much higher risk compared to women in the general population who don’t have the mutant gene - about 13% of them will develop the disease. Plus, people who have inherited this damaged gene tend to develop cancer at younger ages than people who haven’t, and they’re more likely to develop cancer in both breasts. These high risks have long kept scientists seeking answers about why and how BRCA1associated breast cancer develops. They hope that a better understanding of this cancer’s biological causes will lead to better prevention, detection, and treatment. About 10% of breast cancers develop in lobules and are called invasive lobular carcinomas. Most often, breast cancers develop in the milk ducts and are called invasive ductal carcinomas. The word carcinoma describes tumors that start in the epithelial cells. Many studies have found that when a damaged BRCA1 gene leads to breast cancer, it starts with changes in the epithelial cells that line the inside of the ducts, called luminal cells. The specific cells where cancer starts are often called luminal progenitor cells. There have been fewer studies about how other types of breast cells, particularly stromal cells, may change and contribute to the development of cancer, especially as it relates to hereditary genetic mutations such as BRCA1. The Research American Cancer Society (ACS) research scholar, Kai Kessenbrock, PhD, studies how cells in the breast develop early changes that lead to breast cancer, specifically BRCA1associated breast tumors. He recently published a study in Nature Genetics that involved mice with an inherited mutated BRCA1 gene. The team also analyzed pre-cancerous tissue with and without BRCA1 mutations in a 3D cellular model in the lab. In the past, scientists were primarily focused on BRCA1’s effect on epithelial cells. In our lab, we found that women with germline BRCA1 mutations have distinct precancerous changes within various stromal cells—those cells outside of and around the ducts," Kessenbrock says. Continued --
Page 85 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 “That means the epithelial cell may be the first place hereditary breast cancer starts, but something else—in the stroma, we think—is influencing those epithelial cells to mutate,” he explains. Kessenbrock and his team found that breast tissue with a mutated BRCA1 gene but without any cancer present had many more luminal progenitor cells that had changed from their normal state. The cells also had more genes prompting tumor cells to grow rapidly. The team found two striking differences between human cells in their lab that were BRCA1-mutation carriers and that were noncarriers: In BRCA1-mutated carriers, cells that help make up the connective tissue in the stroma - called fibroblasts - had a cancer-associated type (known as a CAF) before any cancer had developed. Those BRCA1-mutated fibroblasts had higher amounts of the gene that codes for the enzyme MMP3 (matrix metalloproteinase), which promotes breast cancer during aging and increases genetic instability. The researchers also revealed something that had been completely unknown: BRCA1mutated carriers had more MMP3-positive stromal cells close to epithelial structures, suggesting a direct link between MMP3 and an increased risk of developing breast cancer. Plus, the increase in MMP3 was “particularly significant” around the lobules. The study authors note that this location could indicate that tumors with a BRCA1 mutation may start “predominately in lobular rather than ductal regions.” They had similar findings in their mouse studies. Why Does It Matter? Kessenbrock’s findings about MMP3 levels in the breast stroma and its location add new evidence to other reports that point to BRCA1mutated breast cancers starting in luminal progenitor cells. More studies still need to be done, but Kessenbrock is hopeful. “Our findings that stromal cells cause hereditary breast cancer in mice may help lead to new ways of monitoring and treating people with BRCA1 mutations. What’s more, anticancer drugs that block the effects of MMP3 may one day have the potential to prevent these breast cancers in women with high-risk BRCA1 mutations,” he says. Past studies using MMP3 inhibitor drugs have not shown promising results. But the study authors note that those trials focused on people with late-stage cancers. To learn how well targeting stromal-epithelial interactions might work requires a study designed to include people with a mutated BRCA1 gene who have not developed cancer.
Page 86 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 A new ACS report says the steepest increase in breast cancer incidence rate is in White women under 50 and the Black-White mortality gap widens. Published on: October 2, 2024 Written by: Sandy McDowell A new American Cancer Society (ACS) report finds that the incidence of breast cancer in women has continued to increase, rising by 1% a year during 2012 to 2021, for all women combined. These cases are largely confined to localized-stage cancers, which have not spread from the breast, and hormone receptorpositive disease (either estrogen positive or progesterone positive), the most common type of breast cancer. Typically, the disease occurs in women older than age 50, so it’s concerning that women younger than age 50 saw a steeper increase in breast cancer (increasing 1.4% a year) than women older than 50 (0.7% a year). Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) women had the fastest increase in breast cancer incidence for both age groups. AAPI women younger than age 50 had a 2.5% increase in incidence a year and AAPI women older than age 50 had a 2.7% increase. The increase in younger AAPI women is particularly striking because it has moved this population from the second lowest incidence Breast Cancer Incidence Still Rises and Death Rate Still Declines rate in 2000 compared to other racial and ethnic groups to sharing the highest breast cancer incidence rate with White women in 2021. In contrast to rising incidence, the death rate for breast cancer among women in the United States has dropped 44% from its peak in 1989 to 2022. That translates to nearly 518,000 fewer breast cancer deaths during this time compared to the number that would have occurred if the peak rate had continued. The continuous decline in breast cancer death rates is attributed to advances in treatment and early detection. But, as with breast cancer incidence rates, there are wide ethnic and racial disparities in death rates. For instance, American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) women have experienced no decrease in breast cancer death rates over the past three decades. The largest breast cancer disparity is between Black and White women. Black women are 38% more likely to die from breast cancer even though they are 5% less likely to be diagnosed with the disease. This is partly because Black women are the least likely to be diagnosed with an early stage of breast cancer, when the cancer can usually be treated more effectively. Only 58% of Black women are diagnosed at a localized stage compared to 68% of White women. Still, Black and White women have similar Continued --
Page 87 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 survival when the cancer is diagnosed at a localized stage. For diagnoses at a regional- or distant-stage, and for every subtype of breast cancer, Black women have worse survival than White women. These findings are published in "Breast Cancer Statistics 2024" in CA: Cancer Journal for Clinicians, led by ACS cancer surveillance researcher Angela Giaquinto, MSPH, Hyuna Sung, PhD, Robert Smith, PhD, Jessica Star, MA, MPH, and Rebecca Siegel, MPH, as well as their department lead Ahmedin Jemal, DVM, PhD. The same team produced the consumer-friendly companion, Breast Cancer Facts & Figures 2024-2025. These biennial reports provide detailed analyses of breast cancer occurrence and current information on known risk factors, early detection, and treatment. We invest more money in breast cancer research than any other type of cancer. ACS-funded researchers have contributed to the development of potentially lifesaving breast cancer drugs, such as tamoxifen and Herceptin. As of July 15, 2024, we were funding more than more than $121 million in breast cancer research, with projects ranging from developing new treatments to understanding how the immune system plays a role to better understanding about how diet contributes to the risk of cancer recurring. Here are a few ways we’re working on one of our top missions—improving disparities in breast cancer. The ACS VOICES of Black Women study launched in May 2024. The study aims to enroll over 100,000 Black women in the US between the ages of 25 and 55 from diverse backgrounds and income levels who have not been diagnosed with cancer to better understand the risk of developing cancer and outcomes after treatment. The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) advocates for increased funding for The National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP). This program provides screening to underserved, underinsured, and uninsured communities. ACS CAN also opposes efforts to eliminate or reduce eligibility for the Breast and Cervical Cancer Prevention and Treatment Act (BCCPT). The BCCPT provides a pathway for breast and cervical cancer treatment through state Medicaid programs.
Page 88 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 A double dose of breast cancer and the loss of her husband doesn’t defeat a real warrior Katie Fry celebrates one year free of breast cancer! As of October 24, 2024, Katie Fry celebrated a year since getting to ring the bell at St. John’s Hospital, signifying that she had officially won her battle with breast cancer. She is a 78-year-young mother, grandmother, great grandmother and was a caring, with unconditional love wife to her late husband Ray. “I know I was very lucky to catch my cancer when I did. My calendar was always full of appointments for one of us. “We didn’t know at the time, but soon my husband would be diagnosed with myeloproliferative neoplasm, and the prognosis wasn’t good.” Myeloproliferative neoplasm is a severe, rare type of blood cancer, something you would never wish upon your worst enemy. There can’t be anything much worse than battling your own severe sickness while you watch your partner of over 45 years do the same. “He wanted to drive me to my surgeries, but I couldn't see him in the waiting room because of the pain he would feel sitting in those chairs and how weak he was getting. At home he would have been physically comfortable, but at the hospital I couldn't take care of him.” Katie held suspicion over the years about the pain in her breast, of whether it was natural changes with age or her heart. She has been getting routine mammograms and has always worked hard on keeping up with her health. She goes on routine walks and trips with her family to stay active, as well as keeping a Continued --
Page 89 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 close eye on her cholesterol, blood sugar, diet and weight. Nothing was ever found in any of her mammograms, so when she brought up her concerns of occasional pain in her right breast, she was told not to worry about it. Many professionals shared that milk glands and hormones change as people get older; she should be fine because her mammograms looked great. Katie let her intuition fall under the radar for many years until she noticed her right nipple had collapsed. She did not rush to make a doctor’s appointment as she had her six month checkup approaching. Katie was unsure of why it might have collapsed, but she did not let it break her spirit. She remembers laughing about it with Ray, joking that her “nipple turned into a valley!” By the time she made it to her appointment, she almost didn't mention anything, remembering how many nurses and doctors told her that her mammograms were clear. She decided to speak up after some of her own research had revealed that a nipple collapse could be a sign of breast cancer. The doctor listened intently to her story and promptly completed a breast exam. He said he didn't feel a bump but scheduled her for an ultrasound within the coming week. To Katie and her family’s dismay, the biopsy revealed a small, one centimeter cancerous mass. In late 2022, Katie was diagnosed with stage two HR+ HER2- cancer. Luckily, this cancer is a slow grower and not commonly aggressive. “I wasn’t initially very scared; many of my friends are cancer survivors; it is what it is. The hardest part was making up my mind about breast removal or balancing them.” After several appointments, Katie was on her way to her partial mastectomy and left breast reduction. After an entire day in the hospital, Katie was taken home by her granddaughter, Devyn, to rest. Katie went back after she was healed up to get her left breast checked and her right rechecked, and unfortunately a larger mass of six centimeters was discovered. She spoke to a radiologist and the surgeon once more and was encouraged to get a full mastectomy. Katie was against removing her right breast, as she still had “one good sized breast.” “I was pissed when he told me I needed to go back into surgery to get my breast taken off because I already had gone through the recovery process. I had perky boobs like I was young again! I had to go in just to ruin what a great job they did.” At first she was certain radiation would finish the job. Yet, the more Katie thought about it, she knew it would be better to make sure and go through with the full mastectomy. Continued --
Page 90 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 When she returned to the surgeon, he was pleased she had decided to remove the full breast and joked that it would have been easier to go this route the first time around. Katie looked back warmly on the memory of breaking the ice with her stoic surgeon, now being able to joke together and talk about family. “I didn't find anyone that wasn’t nice in this whole process.” In their appointment, the surgeon mentioned that the plastic surgeon could give her implants or an LD flap reconstruction to take some fat from her back to reform her right breast. She declined the implants as in rare cases people can develop lymphoma, but with the option of reconstruction, she was thrilled! “I’d always wanted these things really reduced! I just wanted to be down to a B or C-cup, which was going to be a big change for me.” Katie was entering her third surgery with a fourth ahead of her, and she would hopefully come out a cancer-free woman. She was dropped off by her son, Eric, and stayed in the hospital to recover for three days. “I remember it being nice to be the one being taken care of; I haven’t had much of a break since before I had my kids.” Once she made it home, her friend Judy (a former nurse) would come over every morning for three weeks to help her drain the fluid from her LD flap and measure the liquids until the drainage was low enough that she could return to the doctor to get the tubes removed. After healing from the mastectomy and breast reconstruction, Katie was referred to St. Johns in Springfield for radiation treatments. However, her radiation was postponed for almost a month due to a cybersecurity attack on St. John’s. Once she was finally able to start, she was given three gas cards to help with her appointments and a few free bras to get her started. “Everyone was super friendly. I couldn't have asked for a better crew. I went Monday through Friday for five weeks and I showed up early every day. We told stories and really became friends. They said they would truly miss me and that I was such a sweet, fun lady.” Katie had perfect results from radiation, Continued --
Page 91 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 “I had no blistering, my skin didn't change a bit. Many people said they hated the idea of radiation because of that.” Katie laughed and said, “I put on all my creams and Aquaphor through radiation, sometimes I wondered if the machine was working because my skin wasn’t changing! It wasn't really stressful for me; I was really lucky to be healing so well.” When asked about her last day of radiation, she exclaimed, "Oh, that day was great! I said, ‘You gotta take my picture while I ring this bell! Ring ring ring, I'm free!’ They are the best group of ladies at St. John’s. Sometimes it feels like I still have my nipple even though I don't. Since my boobs are smaller, they don't choke me when I sleep at night,” she laughs, “and I can wear button downs!” Now, Katie only has to worry about yearly mammograms and a breast exam every few months. She feels that with her own athome checks, it's hard to tell what might be a lump or scar tissue, but now that she is on her doctor’s radar, she can relax. “If I could have done anything differently, I would have reported nipple collapse sooner and maybe caught the cancer sooner. But when you’re my age you think these changes are age-related. I wish there would have been a bone marrow test on Ray long, long ago, but no one thought of that.” Ray would pass just under a year later, and while Katie misses him dearly, she carries on with her family and friends. Katie is a force to be reckoned with and has stood the test of time over and over again. There is not anything she cannot overcome, not even breast cancer. [Lovingly written by her granddaughter Devyn Fry]
Page 92 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Friendship Manor Residents & Staff Logan County Dept. of Public Health
Page 93 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Lincoln Woman’s Club Timbercrest Veterinary Service
Page 94 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Broadway Graham Lincoln Park District
Page 95 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Tremont Bank - Lincoln Woods & Bates Attorney at Law
Page 96 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 District 27 Administration Adams School
Page 97 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Central School Lincoln Junior High School
Page 98 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Northwest School Washington - Monroe School
Page 99 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Lincoln Community High School Heartland Community College - Lincoln
Page 100 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Advanced Eye Care Smiles on the Square
Page 101 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Brady Painting Culver’s
Page 102 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Edward Jones Investments Hampton Inn
Page 103 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Deep Roots Bakery & Cafe Little Barn Boutique
Page 104 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Don Peasley Lincoln Rotary Club
Page 105 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Wild Petals Collins Roofing
Page 106 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Lincoln Emblem Club Ag-Land FS
Page 107 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Lincoln Logan May Enterpises WLCN Radio, Atlanta
Page 108 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Lincoln Memorial Hospital
Page 109 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 City of Lincoln Public Works
Page 110 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Lincoln City Council Lincoln City Hall Staff
Page 111 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Holzwarth Flying Service Lincoln Speedway
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Page 114 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 Get a free ride to cancer treatment The American Cancer Society Road To Recovery® program eases your burden by giving free rides to cancer-related medical appointments. Our trained volunteer drivers are happy to pick you up, take you to your appointment, and drop you off at home. All for free and all to make your days a little easier. Not having a ride shouldn’t stand between you and lifesaving treatment. Schedule a ride with Road To Recovery® Connect with us by calling 1-800-227-2345. to learn more about Road To Recovery® availability near you and other resources to help you on your cancer journey. Am I eligible? Patients must be traveling to a cancer-related medical appointment. Other eligibility requirements may apply. For example, a caregiver may need to accompany a patient who cannot walk without help, or is under age 18. Contact us to find out what is available in your area, and what the specific requirements are. It can take several business days to coordinate your ride, so please call us at 1-800-227-2345 well in advance of your appointment date. Road To Recovery® How do I become a Road To Recovery® Volunteer? Volunteering as a Road To Recovery® driver will put you at the heart of the American Cancer Society’s mission and fulfill a critical need for cancer patients. If you own or have regular access to a safe, reliable vehicle, then you’re already on the road to volunteering. Volunteer drivers must be between the ages of 18 and 84, have a valid driver’s license, pass a background check, and have access to a safe, reliable car. Continued --
Page 115 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 To learn more about becoming a Road To Recovery® volunteer, please visit our Road To Recovery® volunteer page, linked below. Volunteer to drive cancer patients Being a volunteer driver means you volunteer your time to drive people with cancer to treatment using your personal car. If you have a driver’s license, proof of insurance, pass a background check, and are between 18 and 84 years old, you’re already on the road to volunteering! We’ll provide all the training you need to help patients in your community get to treatment. Frequently asked questions Q. How do I get started? A. If you’re ready to volunteer, visit our Volunteer Community to sign up. Filter the results by searching for the program in your zip code. Please make sure to set a mileage radius and click “Update Results” to view the available opportunities in your area. Once you have located the Road program in your county, click into it and SIGN UP at the top righthand corner of the page. If you have any other questions regarding the program or have issues locating Road to Recovery in your area, please contact us via the interest form at the end of this page. Once you have signed up on the Volunteer Community, a volunteer specialist will contact you to share more about the program. Then, you’ll complete the 60-minute self-paced training and a background check. Ride scheduling is coordinated online and you’ll have the opportunity to share your schedule availability based on what works for you. Once you’re set up, you’ll be able to see and accept ride requests from people in your community who need your help. Q. How much time does it take to volunteer? A. That’s completely up to you! Once your training is complete, you can accept ride requests based on your availability. You can drive twice a month, once a week, or once a day – you choose your schedule. Q. Does the American Cancer Society pay for gas? A. No, and that's why we are so appreciative of our volunteer drivers. With that said, you may be eligible for a tax deduction. According to IRS.gov, the standard rate is 14 cents per mile when driven in service of a charitable organization. Q. Are volunteers paid? A. This is not a paid position, however the reward of helping your neighbors get to the lifesaving treatment they need is invaluable. Q. What is the American Cancer Society doing to protect volunteers and patients against COVID-19? A. All volunteer drivers are strongly encouraged to stay up to date with COVID vaccinations. To see a complete list of requirements or sign up to volunteer with Road To Recovery, please visit our Volunteer Community and select "Road To Recovery" from the program filter on the left side of the page.
Page 116 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 In the month of October, area elementary schools throughout the county were invited to participate in Coins for a Cause in support of the American Cancer Society and breast cancer awareness month. The event was sponsored by the Friends & Family Relay Team and Lincoln Daily News. The schools that participated included Adams School, Carroll Catholic School, Central School, Chester East Lincoln, Lincoln Junior High School, Northwest School in Lincoln, and Zion Lutheran School in Mt. Pulaski. In total the schools raised $1619.79 for the American Cancer Society and the school that raised the most was Lincoln Junior High School, raising nearly one third of the total amount. Within each school there was an additional or part two competition to see what single classroom among all would raise the most money. The classroom that did raise the most received a pizza party from Lincoln Daily News. Local elementary schools participate in Coins for a Cause for the American Cancer Society The classrooms that raised the most money within their schools: Mrs. Boutcher’s Kindergarten Class at Adams School Miss Hite’s third and fourth grade class at Carroll Catholic Mrs. Tippett’s fourth grade class at Central School Continued --
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