Milwaukee VA to host Breast Cancer Awareness Walk

The event will run 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Lake Wheeler Pavilion, located just north of the Milwaukee VA Medical Center at 5000 W. National Ave. It is free and open to Veterans, their caregiver, employees and the public.

The walk is a self-paced, outdoor event. Participants should dress for the weather and have good walking shoes. The 2K route will be through the scenic Milwaukee VA campus.

Remarks from VA leadership will kick off the event at 10:30 a.m.

“Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among American women,” said Katie Wisniewski, Women’s Health program manager at the Milwaukee VA. “Although no direct link has been found between military service and breast cancer, VA continues to study the effects of service on Veteran health.”

The Breast Health Awareness Walk also brings attention to the SERVICE Act, which ensures that all Veterans exposed to burn pits while deployed, and those who may have had other toxic exposures while serving on active duty, will have breast cancer risk assessments and mammography screenings and follow-up care, as needed.

“The SERVICE Act guarantees that any Veteran who served in designated combat locations during specific periods will receive breast cancer risk assessments and a mammogram if it is determined to be clinically appropriate,” Wisniewski said. “Veterans who had a toxic exposure and are concerned about their risk should talk to their health care provider.”

The SERVICE Act aligns with the PACT Act by addressing potential exposure-related health conditions. Veterans who would like to learn more should visit http://www.va.gov/PACT.

Milwaukee VA offers health services for female Veterans through the Women’s Health program at 414-384-2000, ext. 45795. Veterans may also contact the national Women Veterans Call Center at 855-829-6636.

                                                                                                                                   -30-

NOTE TO MEDIA: Please include this in your community calendars. If you are interested in covering the event, RSVP to Milwaukee VA Public Affairs at 414-384-2000, ext. 45363, or email VHAMIWPublicAffairs@va.gov.