Health and Wellness Archives - �۶�ֱ�� University

�۶�ֱ��, Atrium Health and Invision Diagnostics Host Mammogram Screening Event

Office of University Communications — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 19:15:17 +0000

3D Mammography Appointments Available for Campus and Community on Oct. 16

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� University is partnering with Atrium Health and Invision Diagnostics to host a mammogram screening event on Wednesday, Oct. 16, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Invision’s 3D Mammography Bus will be located at 110 S. Main Street in Boiling Springs.

Appointments are required and may be scheduled by calling (877) 318-1349 or on Invision’s website

According to the American Cancer Society, 3D mammograms can find more breast cancers and offer fewer false positives than traditional 2D mammograms. Pam Annas with Atrium Health Employer Solutions also noted the following additional information from the American Cancer Society.

Screening Guidelines

These guidelines are for women at average risk for breast cancer. For screening purposes, a woman is considered to be at average risk if she doesn’t have a personal history of breast cancer, a strong family history of breast cancer, or a genetic mutation known to increase risk of breast cancer (such as in a BRCA gene), and has not had chest radiation therapy before the age of 30. (Additional information for high risk patients is available at this .)

Women between 40 and 44 have the option to start screening with a mammogram every year.
Women 45 to 54 should get mammograms every year.
Women 55 and older can switch to a mammogram every other year, or they can choose to continue yearly mammograms. Screening should continue as long as a woman is in good health and is expected to live at least 10 more years.

All women should understand what to expect when getting a mammogram for breast cancer screening—what the test can and cannot do. A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast. For many women, mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer early, when it is easier to treat and before it is big enough to feel or cause symptoms. Having regular mammograms can lower the risk of dying from breast cancer.

Current evidence supporting mammograms is even stronger than in the past. Recent evidence has confirmed that mammograms offer substantial benefit for women starting in their 40s. Women can feel confident about the benefits associated with regular mammograms for finding cancer early.

What to bring to the appointment:

Photo ID.
Insurance card (insurance should cover this at 100% as preventative care).
Primary Care Provider’s contact information (so they may receive the results of your screening).
Wear a top that can be easily removed.

�۶�ֱ�� University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., �۶�ֱ�� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at �۶�ֱ��.edu.

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Mental Health Counseling Program offers supportive, hands-on experience

Office of University Communications — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 14:39:44 +0000

Graduate Student Heather Banfield Values Personal Interactions with Classmates and Faculty

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—When Heather Banfield, of Forest City, N.C., enrolled as a graduate student at �۶�ֱ�� University, it had been 12 years since she received her bachelor’s degree. She was married with three young children, so there would be many adjustments. However, after meeting with the faculty in the Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, Banfield was assured that they would help her to achieve her goals.

“The interview was a lot different than I thought it would be,” Banfield reflected. Although she attended a small college for her undergraduate degree, the classes were impersonal, and the faculty was distant and unapproachable.

“My interview (at GWU) was a lot less about what I knew and a lot more about who I was,” she affirmed. “That was really meaningful to me, and I knew I wanted to do a program where the people cared about me as a person and not me as a brain.”

Banfield’s decision to go back to college was triggered by COVID-19. “When COVID-19 hit, I was working for a non-profit organization, and we lost a lot of money. I took a step back to try to save us money and save the organization. In the midst of that, I tried to figure out what I wanted to do with my life, and I really felt like God was calling me to counseling, so I applied.”

Because she had been out of school for over a decade, she wanted an in-person option. She did an internet search to see where those programs were available and found �۶�ֱ��. “I applied on a whim,” she offered. “I didn’t do any research; I didn’t think about it; I didn’t apply anywhere else; and I didn’t expect to get in. When I got accepted, I was like, ‘Now, what am I going to do? I have three kids, who are pretty little, so it was a huge life adjustment to figure out how I was going to make it work.”

With the confidence she gained from the initial interview, Banfield began the master’s program. Her instincts about the caring and supportive faculty proved to be true. “That’s something I have loved about the program,” she remarked. “It’s more than just learning. I’ve been shaped as a person. I’ve learned a ton, for sure, but I feel like I am a totally different person, just in how I see the world and how I interact with it.”

She wholeheartedly recommends the program to anyone who asks. “Because counseling is so human-related, you can’t just learn it out of a book,” Banfield informed. “We do a lot of role playing and practice in the classroom. The value is huge. The book learning is really good and important, but the internships, the capstone, and the role play are where I have been formed and feel I have been prepared for when I’m a counselor. It’s an opportunity to take the book knowledge and put it into practice in a real-time way and get immediate feedback from our professors and from our classmates, too.”

The experiential learning activities developed her listening skills as a counselor. During the internship, the students make videos of their counseling sessions and get feedback from their professors and classmates on how well they engage, express empathy, and use the skills they’ve learned. “It’s very humbling,” Banfield assessed. “A lot of that was allowing myself to be put out there in a very vulnerable way and receiving feedback on how well I do that. You don’t often get feedback on how you interact with other humans, so it was paramount in how I’ve been formed for the profession.”

Besides the caring and knowledgeable professors in the program, Banfield values the cohort model, which was especially helpful to her as an adult learner. “The cohort model allows you to bond with the people,” she observed. “We have gotten to know each other pretty deeply. Most of my cohort came straight out of undergrad. They have helped me with the school part of it—the technology part. I have a little more of the (life) experience and that balance has been really nice.”

Banfield expects the relationships to extend beyond the classroom to when she’s in the field. “I will have those people who went through this program with me to lean on and consult with, if I have questions or just to have someone who understands,” she affirmed.

Learn more about the Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

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�۶�ֱ��’s Master of Science in Nursing Program Begins 8-Week Format in 2024 Fall Term

Office of University Communications — Mon, 04 Mar 2024 17:54:27 +0000

Change Allows Students to Complete their Degree in One Year

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program at �۶�ֱ�� University is changing to an eight-week format with the 2024 Fall Term. Courses will follow the �۶�ֱ�� online schedule. The program is designed to be flexible, which gives students the option of completing the program in one or two years.

Dr. Tracy Arnold

“If students want to complete their degree in one year, they can take two courses at a time, every eight weeks,” explained Director of the Hunt School of Nursing Tracy Arnold. “There are two terms in the fall, two in the spring and one summer term.”

Chair of the MSN program Dr. Cindy Miller added that students can tailor the program to fit their schedule. “It’s going to meet the needs of more people, who would like to come back to school while managing personal and professional responsibilities,” she said.

Additionally, changing to eight-week terms benefits nursing students at every level. Through the University’s new Accelerated Master’s Program, or AMP, qualified students working on a bachelor’s degree can begin taking courses in several master’s program. For students working on the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), this means they can take a course in the MSN program.

Students in the Davis RN to BSN program will be able to take two MSN courses. MSN courses taken while a student is enrolled in a bachelor’s program will count towards both the bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Once the student enters the MSN program, they will have fewer courses remaining to complete the degree.

Dr. Cindy Miller

“MSN-prepared nurses play a vital role in addressing the nursing shortage,” Arnold shared. “Nurse educators are essential to preparing the next generation of nurses to enter the workforce. Many Boards of Nursing require nursing faculty to hold at a minimum, an MSN degree, or have a percentage of their faculty prepared at the MSN level.”

Furthermore, Arnold noted that nurse administrators are tasked with addressing the day-to-day challenges of the healthcare system. They are needed to lead healthcare teams and drive organizational change to improve patient outcomes—a skillset that Arnold believes is strengthened through preparation with an MSN degree.

By revamping the MSN curriculum to streamline courses and reduce credit hours from 36 to 30, the Hunt School of Nursing is helping to meet the various needs in the healthcare field. Students can choose from two nursing tracks — education or administration. A third option is offered in conjunction with the College of Business: A combination MSN/Master of Business Administration degree, which has been decreased from 60 to 54 credit hours.

“We emphasize role-specific competencies and incorporate theories and best practices that will help students become successful leaders in whatever field they choose,” Miller explained.

Anna Reid, a current MSN student, said the nursing faculty is dedicated to helping their students grow and achieve their goals. “When looking for schools to further my education, I heard wonderful testimonies from old professors, colleagues and students who attended �۶�ֱ��,” she related. “When looking at their curriculum and program design it was apparent their values in student development expanded beyond the basic curriculums seen at other universities. �۶�ֱ�� focuses on creating safe, supported, well-rounded learning experiences. I have learned more than I ever imagined I would from a school—not only regarding professionalism, but also how to better serve Christ through education, nursing and in my daily life.”

Learn more about the MSN program.

Note to our readers: This article reflects the University’s tuition and fee schedule at the time of publication. Tuition and financial aid policies change annually. For the most up-to-date and accurate information on current tuition rates and financial aid resources, please visit the University’s official Admissions page.

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Gardner-Webb Offers New Benefits Through the Health Clinic

Office of University Communications — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 15:24:05 +0000

Employees, Their Spouses and Dependents Covered by the University’s Health Plan May Obtain Services for Free or Discounted Rates

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� employees who are on the University’s health plan may now obtain the services offered by the �۶�ֱ�� Health Clinic for free. In addition, an employee’s spouse and dependents, who are on the GWU health plan, may now access the Clinic for a charge of $15 per visit.

During the fall and spring semesters, the Clinic, 148 Memorial Drive, Boiling Springs, is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 5 p.m. Summer hours are 1 to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday. The Clinic also offers virtual visits. Clients can meet with providers via phone or video calls during office hours. After hours and weekend support is available via the Nurse Triage Line as well as Atrium Health’s 24/7 virtual on-call provider that can provide care coordination.

The Clinic offers the following services:

First aid/treatment for minor injuries.
Treatment for minor illnesses.
Lab work (e.g., blood work, allergy shots).
Student-athlete physicals.
Health education, training, and support.
Care coordination—If a client can’t find care, the Clinic will help them navigate their options and find the right solutions, quickly and confidentially.

The GW Health Clinic can be reached at (980) 487-2390.

Note: This benefit is being offered on a trial basis. The �۶�ֱ�� Health Clinic is primarily for students, who pay a fee for access to its services. If insured employee/spouse/dependent use of the Clinic impedes or limits student access, then employee/spouse/dependent access may be reduced or discontinued after 30 days’ notice to employees.

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Gardner-Webb Offers Various Mental Health Awareness Programs and Initiatives

Office of University Communications — Tue, 29 Nov 2022 20:10:07 +0000

Counselors and Student-Led Groups Share Strategies for Wellness

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—This fall, the reported that more than 60% of college students met the criteria for at least one mental health challenge. The counselors at �۶�ֱ�� University, like others across the nation, are working to meet the needs of students through additional mental health awareness programs and initiatives. �۶�ֱ�� Counseling Services Director Stephanie Allen shared that her staff is available to students in three locations: the main office on the third floor of Tucker Student Center and satellite offices in Suttle Wellness Center and the College of Health Sciences.

Allen said the counselors are also available in Tucker Student Center every other week during the semester for “Table Talk Thursdays.” In this informal setting, students stop by a table set up on the second floor to chat with a counselor about the topic of the day, such as coping skills, stress management, confidence/self-esteem, self-care and gratitude.

The counseling staff also partners with Athletics, noted Carrie Drake Baker, director of Academic Services for Student-Athletes. “Mental health is a priority for us as an athletic department and for SAAC (Student-Athlete Advisory Committee), and our student-athletes know that it is a priority, too.” Baker affirmed. “We want them to do well academically and on the field, but we really want them to be well-rounded and healthy.”

Additionally, four members of the women’s lacrosse team—Jordan Garrison, Reese Jones, Kyla Paacucci and Avery Callan—share mental health strategies with teammates and friends as ambassadors for an organization called . The non-profit is named for Morgan Rodgers, a lacrosse player for Duke University (Durham, N.C.). Rodgers took her own life in 2019, shocking her family, friends and teammates who had no idea she had a problem.

The mission of Morgan’s Message is to equalize the treatment of physical and mental health in athletics and address the taboo subject. Garrison, Jones, Paacucci and Callan encourage their peers to talk about their feelings and, most of all, to realize they are not alone. Earlier in the semester, Jones led a yoga session, and 60 people attended.

“We are working to speak up about the stigma and increase the resources for athletes so that the options are vast and available for all,” Jones stated. “Being a Morgan’s Message Ambassador has been such an amazing opportunity, as while we are sharing these strategies with others, we are also gaining so many ourselves.”

Those strategies include finding strength in community, breathing and relaxation techniques, comforting those who are struggling and more practical tips and advice.

To learn about future events and meetings, follow Morgan’s Message at GWU on .

For more information about GWU’s Counseling Services, stop by the office on the third floor of Tucker Student Center and leave contact information at the front desk. Or, email Counseling Services or call 704-406-2729.

Dean’s List Podcast: Episode 1, Mental Health Awareness

On episode 1 of the Dean’s List, learn more about mental health awareness and the programs, services and initiatives offered at �۶�ֱ�� for students. Hosted by Lesley Villarose, vice president for Student Development and dean of students, the guests are Stephanie Allen, director of Counseling Services, Carrie Drake Baker, director of Academic Services for Student-Athletes, and Blake Elizalde, SGA president. The episode also features four GWU Women’s Lacrosse players and the work they’re doing through an organization called Morgan’s Message.

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GWU Office of Student Engagement Promotes ‘Movember’ to Bring Attention to Men’s Health

Office of University Communications — Sun, 30 Oct 2022 10:30:00 +0000

Grow Your Facial Hair Contest Begins Nov. 4; Winner Receives ‘Stache King’ Trophy

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The Office of Student Engagement sponsors “” on the �۶�ֱ�� University campus. All are invited to “change the face of men’s health” by participating in a Grow Your Facial Hair Contest, Nov. 1-30. The most creative facial hair will win a trophy.

Last year, 29 participated, and Felipe Velez was the winner of the “Stache King” trophy. “I’d like to encourage everybody to participate, be the next winner and raise awareness for men’s health,” Velez challenged.

Jessika Raduly, associate director of Student Engagement, said the event is one of several activities sponsored by her office to highlight issues that affect many individuals and families, such as breast cancer and mental health.

Since 2003, Movember has funded more than 1,250 men’s health projects around the world, challenging the status quo, shaking up men’s health research and transforming the way health services reach and support men. The organization has funded more than 1,250 projects and has 20 men’s health partners in 20 countries.

Important dates for the GWU contest:

Nov. 4 – Last day to stop by Student Engagement to have “before” picture made. The pictures will be displayed on the glass wall of the indoor climbing area in Tucker Student Center.
Nov. 28-30 – Return during this week to have “after” picture made.
Dec. 2 – Judging.

For more information, email Jessika Raduly.

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�۶�ֱ�� CrossFit Hosts Second Annual Jerry Gass Hero WOD

Office of University Communications — Thu, 13 Oct 2022 19:26:45 +0000

Event Remembers Alumnus Who Died While Serving His Country in Afghanistan

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� CrossFit is hosting the Second Annual Jerry Gass Hero WOD (Workout of the Day) in Spangler Stadium on Homecoming day, Oct. 29, at 8 a.m. Last year, over $5,000 was raised for the Jerry Gass Jr. Memorial Scholarship during the inaugural event.

Staff Sgt. Girard “Jerry” Gass Jr., 33, a Green Beret, died Aug. 3, 2014, while on a combat operation in Afghanistan. The 2003 �۶�ֱ�� alumnus was assigned to Company C, 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne), Fort Bragg, N.C., and was deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy, and two children, Charlie and Stella.

Gass was a Special Forces Medic and Sniper on his second deployment to Afghanistan. The last thing this hero did before his death was carry an injured teammate to safety, treat him, and get him off the battlefield. His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal with “V” device, the Army Achievement Medal, and the Meritorious Service Medal among several other military commendations.

Nancy said her husband loved his family and was a caring friend, who would do anything to help someone. “This event means my husband has not been forgotten,” she shared. “It means my kids will have another opportunity to be made aware that their Daddy was someone special, and he is loved and appreciated for his service and for the type of person he was.”

The event is open to individuals and two-person teams. Registration for the competition is available

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�۶�ֱ�� and CVS Host Flu Vaccine Clinic for Campus and Community

Office of University Communications — Mon, 19 Sep 2022 13:56:21 +0000

Flu Vaccines Available Oct. 5 and 6 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Tucker Student Center

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� University is partnering with CVS to offer a Flu Vaccine Clinic for faculty, staff, students and the community on Oct. 5 and 6 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Hope Hall, Tucker Student Center.

The Flu Vaccine Clinic is free for all individuals through their medical health insurance. If individuals do not have insurance or a flu vaccine is not covered by their insurance, they will need to pay $47 for the vaccine.

People will need to bring their IDs and insurance cards with them. All individuals will need to complete a consent form once they arrive.

According to the (CDC), the flu vaccine is the first and most important step in preventing flu. The vaccine has been shown to reduce flu related illnesses and the risk of serious flu complications that can result in hospitalization or even death.

The CDC also recommends everyday preventive actions—like staying away from people who are sick, covering coughs and sneezes, and frequent handwashing—to help slow the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses, like flu.

�۶�ֱ�� University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to six professional schools, 14 academic departments, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., �۶�ֱ�� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at �۶�ֱ��.edu.

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Gardner-Webb Opens Fitness Facilities to Alumni, Community Individuals and Groups

Office of University Communications — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 13:49:29 +0000

Memberships offered for CrossFit Classes and Suttle Wellness Center

Broyhill Adventure Course Open for Team Building, Leadership Development and Birthday Parties

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� University now offers community memberships to Suttle Wellness Center and CrossFit classes and facilities. In addition, the Broyhill Adventure Course (BAC), located on Stadium Drive, is open to businesses, school groups and churches for leadership and team development, and to families for birthday parties.

�۶�ֱ�� is an officially licensed CrossFit (CF) affiliate and has three CF Level 1 trainers on staff. Head Coach Melissa Battista is a CF Level 2 trainer and holds certificates in CF gymnastics and Precision Nutrition Level 1. According to the , workouts involve a strength and conditioning system built on constantly varied, if not randomized, functional movements executed at high intensity.

The classes are open to all levels of fitness stated Assistant Dean of Students Brian Arnold, who is a CF Level 1 trainer. “Our CrossFit coaches have great modifications for all movements,” he stated. “In addition, they are here to talk about technique and the overall purpose of the workout. CrossFit is all about community—a group of people meeting to work out and get fit. It’s a great chance to make new friends, whether they are students, faculty or staff, and now, members of the community.”

Brian Arnold, left, and Megan Peek begin their CrossFit workout.

CrossFit is characterized by its combination of gymnastics, weightlifting, Olympic weightlifting, and metabolic conditioning (such as running, biking, rowing, and jumping rope). At CrossFit GWU, you’ll use equipment such as a barbell, a pull-up bar, rings, kettlebells, a rower, an assault bike. CrossFit classes are offered Monday through Thursday at 11 a.m., 2 p.m., and 4 p.m. Fridays classes are 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

“Our coaches produce great outcomes, in what they do with athletes in the gym that includes teaching movement, cueing corrections, and pushing athletes to improve,” Battista asserted. “The constantly varied workouts are proved to be effective, exciting, and addictive. The most rewarding part for coach and athlete is when the athlete accomplishes something that they never thought possible. It not only empowers them in the gym, but in life.”

The BAC is a unique outdoor adventure complex that offers a series of experiential challenges designed to enhance team building and personal growth. This course and the Indoor Climbing Wall in Tucker Student Center are also open to families for birthday parties.

Using a combination of high and low ropes activities, participants experience climbing and problem solving as metaphors for life whereby communication skills are improved, self-esteem is enhanced, problem solving techniques are applied, and cooperation in group and team situations is further developed.

CrossFit Membership Details:

CrossFit Memberships include usage of the Cardio Room, Free Weight Room, Bost Gym and Bost Pool (during open swim). This membership level also includes any group fitness classes, such as Zumba or Yoga, offered in the Suttle Wellness Center. CrossFit memberships are available to individuals 18 and older. For more information, email Head CrossFit Coach Melissa Battista.

Monthly Pricing

Graduate and Professional Students – $50

Degree Completion Students – $50

Alumni – $80

Alumni and Spouse – $150

Community Member – $110

Community Member and Spouse – $175

Student Spouse – $50

Suttle Wellness Center Membership Details:

The Suttle Wellness Center offers various cardio and strength equipment, and free weights.

Memberships to The Suttle Wellness Center include access to the various cardio and strength equipment, free weights, Bost Gym and Pool (during open swim). This membership level will also include any group fitness classes (Zumba or Yoga), but excludes CrossFit. If individuals have questions on how to use the fitness equipment, they can ask one of the Suttle Wellness Center staff members. Memberships are available to individuals 18 and older. For more information, email Head CrossFit Coach Melissa Battista.

Suttle Wellness Center Hours of Operation

Monday through Thursday: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Friday: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sunday: 3 to 9 p.m.

Hours will vary on holidays and breaks.

Per Semester Membership

Graduate and Professional Students – $45

Degree Completion Students – $45

Per Month Membership

Alumni – $30

Alumni and Spouse – $50

Community Member – $40

Community Member and Spouse – $60

Student Spouse – $15

Broyhill Adventure Course (BAC)

The BAC practices a “Challenge by Choice” philosophy which allows participants to choose a comfortable level of involvement. Programs are flexible and can be designed to meet a specific group’s needs. Half day (4-hour) and full day (8-hour) sessions are available for groups ranging from 12-18 participants. All adventure course facilitators have specialized skills necessary to ensure individual and group safety. Families can reserve the BAC or the Indoor Climbing Wall in Tucker Student Center for birthday parties. For more information, email Bogdan Podgaisky, coordinator for Campus Recreation.

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GWU Faculty Members Lead Thyroid and Breast Cancer Programs From Survivors’ Perspective

Office of University Communications — Thu, 15 Sep 2022 20:29:47 +0000

Offered in September and October, Events Educate About Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment

Dr. Nicole Waters

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Thyroid and breast cancer affects more than 307,000 Americans each year, and two programs in September and October will provide information on prevention, diagnosis and treatment. Sponsored by the �۶�ֱ�� University College of Health Sciences and Gayle Bolt Price School of Graduate Studies, the awareness events will be led by GWU faculty members who are also cancer survivors. The community is invited to attend both events, which will be available in person and via Zoom.

These sessions will offer vital information, noted College of Health Sciences Dean and Associate Professor Nicole Waters. “Each program will bring awareness to adopting and maintaining healthy behaviors and the importance of screening for a particular cancer—thyroid and/or breast cancer,” she described.

Thyroid Cancer Awareness – Sept. 26

September is national Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month, and the first program on Sept. 26 at 4 p.m. will be led by Hunt School of Nursing Associate Director and Associate Professor Dr. Anna S. Hamrick. The event will be held in Room 261 of the College of Health Sciences or join via .

Dr. Anna Hamrick

“I am honored for the opportunity to share my personal experience as a survivor of thyroid cancer,” she shared. “My experience as a nurse practitioner, nurse educator, wife and mother of two young children navigating a new cancer diagnosis changed my perspective of healthcare. Although I would never choose to have a cancer diagnosis, I do believe what I learned during my journey helps me be a better patient advocate. I am excited to share these lessons learned with future healthcare professionals.”

Hamrick was 32 years old when she was diagnosed with thyroid cancer in 2014. Her treatment included two surgeries and radiation with radioactive iodine. She will also discuss the prevalence of thyroid cancer and the signs and symptoms. “I will share the importance of a ‘neck check,’ treatment options, side effects, and prognosis,” she added. “I will also share stories about navigating care and how to advocate for yourself in the modern healthcare system.”

The audience will be invited to participate in a Q&A after Hamrick’s presentation.

Breast Cancer Awareness – Oct. 25

Dr. Ami Steele

Physician Assistant Studies Director and Associate Professor Ami R. Steele and Hunt School of Nursing Associate Professor Dr. Kathy Williams will present the Breast Cancer Awareness Program on Oct. 25 at 4 p.m. The event will be in Room 261 of the College of Health Sciences or join via .

As a breast cancer survivor, Steele asserted that she and many breast cancer survivors want to share their stories. “Each one is unique and often reaches someone who relates,” she observed. “For me, surviving became an opportunity to share the hope of Christ, and the signs of cancer for early detection.”

Dr. Kathy Williams

Williams said she hopes her participation will encourage others to follow their doctors’ guidance on routine mammograms and health screenings. “I have no family history of breast cancer,” she explained. “However, on the recommendation of my healthcare provider, I always obtained yearly mammograms and was able to have a very early diagnosis and treatment due to this.”

Williams was diagnosed in July 2020, had surgery in August 2020, and received chemotherapy for three months. “I want other women (and men) to realize there are excellent treatments for breast cancer,” she affirmed.

Williams and Steele will close the session with a time of Q&A.

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 working days prior to the event. Please call 704-406-4270 or email disabilityservices@gardner-webb.edu with your request.

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