COLUMBUS -- Each year an estimated 176,300 new cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in the United States. But there is hope. Early detection can make a difference, and it has in the lives of thousands of breast cancer survivors, including Ohio State University's own first lady Patty Kirwan.

Mrs. Kirwan will share her own personal experience with breast cancer during a Lunch and Learn Session, Oct. 6, from noon to 1 p.m. in room 122 of the Main Library, 1858 Neil Ave. A representative from the American Cancer Society also will be on hand to talk about the importance of screening and current perspectives on breast cancer, the second major cause of cancer death among women in the United States. Those who attend will be entered in a drawing to receive the new Longaberger "Horizon of Hope" basket.

Other events during The Ohio State University's Breast Cancer Awareness Week 2000, Oct. 2-6, include:

Monday, Oct. 2 -- Come to the Oval for free shower reminder cards, emery boards, pins, ribbons and breast health information from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Artwork from The Breast Cancer Fund exhibit "Obsessed With Breasts" also will be on display.

Wednesday, Oct. 4 -- Learn more about preventing, screening and treating cancer from representatives from the American Cancer Society and the College of Nursing in the Ohio Union Lobby, 1739 N. High St., from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 6 -- Support breast cancer awareness by wearing denim and donating $5 to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Fund during the National Denim Day, a mark of solidarity against breast cancer. The event is sponsored by Lee Jeans.

For more information or to volunteer, please call the Student Wellness Center at 292-4527 or go to http://140.254.28.8/BrCaWeek.

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