San Andreas, CA…Mark Twain Medical Center (MTMC) will be promoting the importance of early detection of breast cancer, followed by prompt treatment, saves lives. The entire community is invited to participate in the annual ‘Pink in the Night’ opening ceremony October 1st, in Valley Springs at the Terrace’s (Common Grounds) at 7:00pm. All those who currently have breast cancer, survivors and support providers will be able to light a candle in tribute to those who are currently battling breast cancer, in remembrance of those that bravely lost their battle, or ones that have survived the disease.

“On behalf of the Mark Twain Health Care Board and staff”, commented Board Chair, Dr. Peter Oliver. “It is with pleasure and commitment that we support Pink in the Night as a community wide breast cancer awareness event.”
The emphasis on creating Pink in The Night was to serve as a reminder to women that it is time to take charge of their own health. To remind women about the importance of an annual mammogram; to do a monthly self-exam; or to see a physician for a regular check-up. Through the ‘Every Women Counts’ program, women can obtain free cancer screening health care services such as cancer screening pap smears, breast screening exams, including digital mammography and diagnostic imaging reading from the radiologist. Women that are California residents can qualify to meet the income guidelines that pertain to those that do not have health insurance, or are underinsured with high deductibles and high co pays. Those women that may be unable to afford to cover these costs may be able to immediately qualify for free services through the ‘Every Women Counts Program.’ Any women desiring these services can call (209)754-2968 to make an appointment through the MTMC Medical Center in Arnold.

The pink lights symbolize hope, and MTMC hopes Pink in The Night will a difference in someone’s life. This event was originally started seven years ago by Calaveras residents Peggy Lucas, Debbie Sellick and Suki Tutthill. In honor of National Breast cancer awareness month, the women all felt that October is a time to honor those living with breast cancer, their families, friends, and all those who provide them with love and support; and to everyone that has been touched by the disease.

“October 1st kicks off Breast Cancer Awareness Month,” commented Staci Johnston, Executive Director
of the Calaveras County Chamber of Commerce. “In full support of those who are fighting this
courageous battle & for those who have so bravely gone before us, we hope to see all Calaveras County
businesses stand with us by lighting up in PINK. The Calaveras County Chamber Office will have
strands of pink lights on hand for local businesses to pick up and display. These lights represent the
importance of women taking charge of their lives and taking care of themselves, as women- we tend to
put others first. Early detection does save lives.”

Both the Health Care District and Hospital Foundation have actively supported women’s health initiatives by
raising money to support the Foundation’s current Angels Camp Medical Center Campaign.

Over the past seven years the communities of Angels Camp, Arnold, Avery, Burson, Copperopolis,
Mokelumne Hill, Mountain Ranch, Murphys, San Andreas, Valley Springs, Wallace, and West Point, have lit
up with pink lights furnished by the Mark Twain Health Care District at their businesses. Once again MTMC
is encouraging all Calaveras County businesses to light hang up the pink strings of lights on the evening of
October 1st funded by the Mark Twain Health Care District and will keep them lit during the entire month of
October.

“The MTMC 2015 Pink in the Night event is recognition of the impact Breast Cancer has had on our family,
friend and neighbors,” continued Dr. Peter Oliver. “We welcome those whom have been diagnosed, are in
treatment or have survived breast cancer, to join our community members in a celebration of our partnership
based on mutual respect and understanding.”

The Calaveras Redskins Football Leagues will be joining MTMC for the Pink in the Night Lighting
Ceremony for all of the public to attend at 7:00 p.m. on October 1st, at The Terrace (Common Grounds,
Fusion Grill) in Valley Springs.

On Friday, October 3rd, at the Calaveras Redskins Varsity game, MTMC will have a booth for Breast Cancer
Awareness, and during half time there will be a special ceremony for Survivors.

Both football programs and cheer squads will be handing out pink bracelets and commemorative footballs to
families in attendance. All football players will have pink ribbons on their helmets which they will wear for
the entire month of October signifying hope for the cure.

All Calaveras County Businesses are encouraged to ‘Pink’ their businesses. Pink string lights can be picked
up at all five Medical Center locations, and Specialty Care Centers the Mark Twain Cancer Center and The
Calaveras County Chamber of Commerce Office.

For further information, please call Nicki Stevens, at (209)754-5919.
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About Mark Twain Medical Center
Founded in 1951, Mark Twain Medical Center is a 25-bed, full-access hospital providing inpatient acute
care, outpatient services and emergency services. The Medical Center’s Medical Staff represents a broad
range of specialties that ensure access to high quality medical care in a rural community. In addition to
being a major provider of health services, Mark Twain Medical Center is also a major source of jobs for
area residents. On average, more than 300 people are employed at the hospital and its five Family
Medical Centers. The Medical Center is a member of Dignity Health, the fifth largest not-for-profit
healthcare system in the nation. For more information, please visit our website at
www.marktwainmedicalcenter.org. Mark Twain Medical Center is also on Facebook.