Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Dear John

Dear Editor,

In May many of our readers will add plans for a Mother's Day celebration to their busy calendars. They may take mom to a movie, out to dinner or plan a family picnic. I would like to take this opportunity to suggest the perfect Mother's Day gift  a gift that may allow some families to ultimately enjoy many more such celebrations.

This gift is one that a mother can use every year. It is something that she may be reluctant to get for herself. It is a gift that demonstrates how much she is loved and how important she is to her family. It only requires a time commitment to redeem the gift and, thanks to the Arkansas BreastCare program, it is available at no cost to women who qualify.

This gift is a mammogram.

Each year 400 Arkansas women die from breast cancer. The earlier a diagnosis is made the better the chances for successful treatment. In 1997 the Arkansas legislature established the Arkansas Breast Care Act making Arkansas women over 40 who have no health insurance or who are under-insured eligible for a free mammogram. If breast cancer is diagnosed, BreastCare provides them with free treatment. Eligibility can be determined by calling 1-877-670-CARE. It is that simple.

So as Mother's Day approaches, I hope that your readers will take this opportunity to encourage their moms to have a mammogram. It is a gift that says "I love you and I want you in my life" like no other.

For information about the BreastCare program or to determine eligibility call 1-877-670-CARE and Happy Mother's Day.

Percy Malone

State Representative