Make a Difference for those at Risk for Colon Cancer

I have Lynch Syndrome, the most common genetic disease that can lead to colon and other forms of cancer. Unfortunately it’s hereditary, which puts all of my children at risk. In fact, two of my sons have already had colonoscopies – one at the new Silver Cross Endoscopy Center and the other in the Hospital. My third son had a screening colonoscopy when he came home from school last week for Thanksgiving, and my daughters will start their regular screenings when they turn 20.

Let’s face it; having a colonoscopy is probably not on the top of your “Bucket List”. But it is for my family! Not only am I the mother of five young adults, but at age 50, I am also a two-year colon cancer survivor.

Living in Homer Glen, I am so grateful that we have a “Five Star” hospital so close to home. This past summer, Silver Cross opened a state-of-the-art outpatient endoscopy center on the hospital’s campus. For my kids, going to this facility isn’t as overwhelming as going to the hospital, and it’s much more convenient. Parking is easy, and the staff and doctors are friendly and compassionate. And if any of my kids need follow-up care, it’s reassuring to know that Silver Cross has specialists highly skilled in colorectal surgery. Knowing that my kids have access to safe, high quality healthcare since this inherited condition is something they will have to live with for the rest of their lives definitely gives me peace of mind.

With my family at risk, it’s difficult for me to say that colon cancer is the third leading cause of death in the U.S. But, 90% of colon cancer cases (like mine) can be cured and treated if detected at an early stage. This is why it is extremely important that we rally together to support our community hospital; especially as so many more people – like my kids, are being screened for cancer at a younger age. I recently heard that the American Cancer Society just lowered the age for recommended colon cancer screening to 45. This means that Silver Cross will need to continue to expand its services adding more colonoscopy procedural rooms in its new Endoscopy Center – one outpatient room is just not enough to meet the growing demand.

Your gift is vital! I encourage you to join me in supporting Silver Cross Hospital by making a tax-deductible donation to the Silver Cross Foundation so that my children and so many others at risk for cancer can continue to get the care they need to live long and healthy lives. Thank you!

A Grateful Mom and Patient,

Jennifer Jeffries

P.S. As a not-for-profit organization, Silver Cross Hospital relies on charitable support to continue the level of care and compassion we are accustomed to receiving. I hope you will consider making a gift today.