Changing Lifestyles to Improve Health
Who We Are
The Cancer Awareness Network for Children, Inc. (CAN) is a program birthed out of the pain and frustration of my siblings and I as we witnessed our mother’s untimely demise to cancer. As such, we decided to use our frustration and pain to help others. In 1997, we co-founded the Cancer Awareness Network for Children, Inc., a non-profit 501© 3 organization. The “for children” portion of the title in our name reflects my siblings and I as we searched for answers amongst the devastation we experienced. For the past twenty-three years, the CAN has served the community hosting annual quarterly free workshop luncheons at local churches and
community centers throughout the Birmingham metropolitan area.
About Us
The main goal of the Cancer Awareness Network for Children is to eliminate and diminish some of the fears associated with the diagnosis of cancer for people of all ages. The organization works closely with local oncologists who serve as presenters at each workshop. This partnership enables us to stay abreast of updates and clinical breakthroughs in research in the area of oncology. Since its inception, CAN has served over 500 cancer survivors and their family members, being empowered through our services. CAN is designed to inform, motivate, and educate individuals assisting in an effective and positive health care experience.
The volunteers and staff work hard to ensure that after participants attend the
Cancer Awareness Network for Children, Inc. workshop, they will be able to:
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Challenge and eliminate misconceptions and fears associated with cancer in their immediate communities and beyond
- Communicate with their peers and loved ones on the importance of cancer related information including self- exams, statistics, clinical trials, and medical breakthroughs
- Engage with medical professionals in relation to physical exams while attending regular check-ups or follow-up medical visits
- Evaluate and locate information about cancer and preventative measures and associated future treatments
- Recognize and incorporate healthy life style principles and practices
- Receive financial assistance and house cleaning services for patients in treatment upon request
Cancer Awareness Network for Children, Inc.
Board of Directors 2022
Executive Board
Sandra Fields
Erica Johnson
Acting Secretary
Gail Terry Arrow
Treasurer
Alesia Price
Parliamentarian
Advisory
Dr. Sharon Spencer
Dr. Michelle S. Williams
Dr. Erica Stringer Reasor
Dr. Carolina Salvador
Joanice Thompson
Esquire Anita Terry-Tye
Committee Chairs & Board Members
Co-Founders
Loretta Herring
Loventric Loftin
COO
Renya Hooks
Celita Davis
CIO
Theresa Smith
CCO
The theme of the Cancer Awareness Network for Children of all ages program is “Cutting Away the Fears”. The logo is symbolized by a pair of “open scissors” representing a cutting away motion. We are continually and actively involved supporting and enabling patients upon their request on a regular basis. In addition to educating, enabling and empowering caretakers and honoring survivors, we assist participants with transportation needs, house cleaning during treatment, direct them to appropriate agencies for financial support and healthcare, and guide them in networking with similar organizations for themselves and family members.
“Cutting Away the Fears”
“Fear Cutters”
Mission Statement
Vision
Values
Solution
Impact
We touch over 300 lives each year with our workshops/luncheons, stage play, and assistance program.
Calendar of Events
- January – Board of Directors Meeting
- February – Workshop
- March – Cancer Facts Highlights
- April – Minority Cancer Highlights
- May – Workshop & High School Scholarships Award
- June – Cancer Survivorship Celebration Month
- July – Workshop
- August – Volunteer Reception
- September – Workshop
- October – 5 K Fun/Run
- November – Annual Awards Banquet
- December – CAN Cares for Holidays