Be safe in the sun

As summer is fast approaching, I would like to remind everyone to be sun aware and sun safe - put on sunscreen and wear protective clothing. These simple steps will protect you and your family from skin cancer.

This cancer is close to my heart as my nephew, Ryan, died at the age of 21 because of melanoma. In memory of Ryan and others who were taken too soon from us, I want to “rays” awareness about this type of cancer and the organization “Outrun the Rays” to hopefully help others.

Did you know the vast majority of skin cancers are caused by exposure to excessive UV radiation? There are more than 3.5 million new cases of skin cancer diagnosed and more than 76,000 new cases of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, diagnosed each year.

On May 26, the non-profit group “Outrun the Rays” will be having a 5,000-meter walk/run and bike ride in Peosta. More than $12,000 was raised last year! The proceeds were used to purchase sunscreen for local pools, ballparks and golf courses, and on billboards warning of the dangers of melanoma. The group also is providing roofs for dugouts at local ballparks to keep our children sun safe and encouraging high schools to “ban the tan” at prom!

Join us to honor our family and friends touched by this disease.

To sign up, participate or learn how you may volunteer, email Janel Kluesner at janelkluesner@yahoo.com or “like” “Outrun the Rays” on Facebook.

Kim Miller

Cedar Rapids