You would be hard-pressed to find someone who has never heard of the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. Millions of people across the globe participate in this yearly fundraiser, but did you know that Relay for Life originated right here in Tacoma, WA? In May 1985, Dr. Gordon “Gordy” Klatt ran around the University of Puget Sound track for an arduous 24 hours straight and raised $27,000 for the American Cancer Society to show ONE person can truly have an impact on the fight against cancer. Sadly, Dr. Klatt passed away in 2014 at the age of 71, but he will always be remembered as the man who redefined the way the world battles cancer.
At Puget Sound Orthopaedics, we wholeheartedly believe in Dr. Klatt’s philosophy. And if one person can make such an amazing difference, imagine what a TEAM can do. For the last 6 years, PSO has participated in the Lakewood Relay for Life, inviting employees, friends and family to make a donation; participate in fundraising activities and attend the Relay. This year, we had 37 participants and raised almost $2,500.00 for the American Cancer Society!
“We are passionate about participating because we have all been touched in some way by cancer and we want to support our surrounding community. We all come together to fight back because no matter our differences, cancer doesn’t care. It never sleeps and it never stops. There is no finish line until we find a cure.” Sharayah Kinney, PSO Team Captain
Your Health is our TOP Priority
In 2016, the American Cancer Society estimated 3,300 new bone and joint cancer cases would be diagnosed and nearly 1,490 of these cases were expected to result in death. According to the ACS nearly 1/2 of all cancer deaths are preventable by avoiding tobacco, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly and getting cancer screenings and our doctors are here to help. At PSO, your bone and joint health is the top priority.
We provide comprehensive orthopaedic care in musculoskeletal disorders and the support and resources our patients need to maintain their health. Should surgery become necessary, our doctors’ specialties range from upper and lower extremity, total joint replacement, spine care and more. As a patient at PSO, you will also have access to resources for weight management, smoking cessation and individualized exercise recommendation based on your needs/injuries.
If you or a family member is seeking treatment for a bone or joint condition, please give us a call at 253-582-7257. We look forward to speaking with you.
For Cancer resources in the Tacoma area, visit:https://www.cancer.org/treatment/support-programs-and-services.htmlThis
article was written by Leslie Kelling.
